Lionel Messi Return: Best Chance to Join Newell's 2027

Lionel Messi’s Future: Is a Return to Newell’s Old Boys on the Horizon?

Lionel Messi only signed a new contract with MLS side Inter Miami last October, but speculation about his next move is already gaining momentum. The football icon, who has dazzled fans worldwide for more than two decades, is reportedly being linked with a heartfelt return to his boyhood club, Newell’s Old Boys in Argentina. This potential comeback could mark a full-circle moment in Messi’s illustrious career, fulfilling a long-held dream to once again don the colors of the club where it all began.

A Dream Rooted in History: Lionel Messi and Newell’s Old Boys

Messi, now 38, is more than just a former youth player for Newell’s Old Boys; he is a symbol of the club’s proud history. Having spent seven formative years in their youth ranks, from childhood until his move to Barcelona at 13, Messi made a deep connection with the club. During his time in the academy, he scored an astonishing 234 goals and left such an impact that the club’s stadium has a stand named in his honor.

His affection for Newell’s has never been a secret. In interviews over the years, Messi has openly expressed his desire to return and play for the club. However, his family’s priorities and the country’s socio-political situation have been considerations delaying that dream.

Plans in Motion for Lionel Messi’s Newell’s Return

The latest development came recently when Newell’s vice president, Juan Manuel Medina, revealed that negotiations are underway to secure Messi for the first half of 2027. Speaking to Argentine media outlet TN, Medina stated:

“We are working on Leo playing for Newell’s in the first half of 2027. It’s a project that goes beyond Newell’s. It’s a project for the city of Rosario, the province, and Argentine football. It all depends on what we can offer in terms of infrastructure and a competitive sports program.”

This statement underscores that Messi’s potential homecoming isn’t only about football but also about uplifting the local community and Argentine football as a whole.

The Contract Situation: How Could Messi Play for Newell’s?

Currently, Messi remains contracted to Inter Miami until the 2028 season. He only recently signed a new deal with the MLS side last October, reinforcing his commitment to the club. Since his arrival, Messi has made 88 appearances for Inter Miami, netting 77 goals and helping the team clinch major honors, including the MLS Cup, the MLS Supporters’ Shield, and the Leagues Cup.

So how could Messi feature for Newell’s by 2027 while under contract? The 2027 MLS season is expected to be split to align with the European football calendar. This scheduling may open up opportunities for Messi to explore a loan move, enabling him to maintain his competitive edge and fitness with Newell’s during specific parts of the year.

Messi’s Affection and Considerations for Family

Messi’s love for Newell’s has always been balanced with pragmatic concerns. Reflecting on his dream back in 2017, he said:

“I’ve said many times that my dream is to play at Newell’s but I don’t know what will happen, and a part of that doubt is due to the way the country is at the moment. I have a family and my children come first, and then me. I want them to grow up in a calm place, being able to enjoy life with security.”

This reveals an important factor shaping Messi’s decisions—prioritizing his family’s safety and well-being. For his dream to come true, these concerns must be adequately addressed, possibly requiring significant investments in local infrastructure and security, as Medina alluded to.

Inter Miami’s Vision and Messi’s Ongoing Commitment

Despite the rumors and potential moves, Messi’s current relationship with Inter Miami remains strong. Club co-owner David Beckham praised Messi’s signing with enthusiasm, highlighting it as a landmark moment for the team:

“Our vision was to bring the best players to Inter Miami and to this city, and that’s exactly what we have done. We brought the best player to have ever played the game to our city. That shows our commitment to Miami, but it also shows Leo’s commitment to the city, to the club, and to the game. He’s still as committed as he’s ever been and he still wants to win.”

Messi’s impact at Inter Miami has been immediate and profound, and while his future may include Newell’s, there’s no doubt he remains fully engaged in his current chapter.

What Could a Messi Return Mean for Newell’s and Argentine Football?

Lionel Messi’s potential return to Newell’s Old Boys transcends football. It could invigorate local passion, inspire young talent, and boost the club’s global profile. More broadly, it might spotlight Argentine football, attracting investment and development opportunities in Rosario and beyond.

For Messi, it would be a poetic conclusion to a storied journey—from a gifted youth in Rosario to a global icon and finally to a local hero returning to nurture future generations.

Conclusion

Lionel Messi only signed a new contract with MLS side Inter Miami last October, but the football world is already buzzing with speculation about the next chapter in his extraordinary career. Rumors about a potential return to his roots with Newell’s Old Boys are gathering momentum, as Messi’s affection for his boyhood club has been well documented. This possible move has stirred excitement not only among fans but also within the football community in Argentina, sparking hopes of a grand homecoming for one of the sport’s greatest icons.