Argentine superstar Lionel Messi stunned the world when he moved to MLS side Inter Miami this summer. Fans were expecting the player to return to his old club Barcelona, but La Pulga in the end chose the USA move. While the World Cup winner was on fire at first helping the side clinch the Leagues Cup title, an untimely injury derailed the team’s momentum, knocking them out of the MLS playoffs race. With the star free for some part of his year, fans are speculating if the player could make a return to his old club.

Inter Miami boss Tata Martino recently touched down on Lionel Messi’s availability, commenting on the possibility of the player joining FC Barcelona on a loan. If such a move goes through, both Lionel Messi and Barcelona will have a chance to give each other a well-deserved send-off.

Tata Martino speaks on Lionel Messi’s return to Barcelona

Inter Miami manager Tata Martino addressed the press after his side was knocked out from the race to playoffs. The manager, when answering questions surrounding Lionel Messi, was asked if the player could return to FC Barcelona on a possible loan. However, Martino shrugged off the suggestion, as he had this to say:

“Is he going for fun? Maybe he’s going to visit Barcelona. Other than that, I don’t know anything else about it.” From the looks of it, Lionel Messi might stay with Inter Miami despite his schedule being free during the winter. However, it wouldn’t be a big surprise if Inter Miami does loan the star to Barcelona. MLS superstars have been loaned out to their former clubs in the past, and La Pulga could be the next in line.

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Will Lionel Messi follow in the footsteps of Inter Miami owner David Beckham?

Lionel Messi’s first season with Inter Miami is expected to come to a premature end. Inter Miami just crashed out from the race to the MLS playoffs after a string of defeats. However, the player could still play soccer if Inter Miami and FC Barcelona come to an agreement. MLS outfits have loaned their players to European sides after being knocked out before the playoffs.

Inter Miami owner David Beckham was loaned out to AC Milan during his time with the LA Galaxy. While Arsenal legend Thierry, Henry returned to the Gunners for a two-month spell during his time with NY Red Bulls. Lionel Messi could follow the same path and possibly join FC Barcelona on a short-term loan during the winter.

While the European season starts mid-year and runs throughout the year, the MLS kick-starts in February and ends in December. With Messi and Inter Miami knocked out from the race to playoffs, the Argentinian has over three months on his schedule if he wants to play for FC Barcelona. Do you think Lionel Messi will return to FC Barcelona? Let us know in the comments below.

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