According to kιϲk TV, as reported by The Mirror, an interview with Tebas disclosed that there were discussions between La Liga, Barcelona, and Messi for a potential reunion, but the plans never materialized. Ultimately, the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner chose to make a move to the United States and join the MLS club Inter Miami.

“Personally, because of Messi’s and Barca’s desire, I saw it as close,” he said, translated from a Spanish livestream on kιϲk. “When there is that affection, many economic issues are left aside. I saw it as possible. I saw it as close. I am sure that Messi would have liked to retire at Barca.”

In June 2023, Messi addressed speculations about his wish to retire in Catalonia, confirming their accuracy. However, he also provided a logical explanation, stating that the optimal scenario for both parties would be to conclude their journey where it initially began.

“I really wantеԀ, I was very excited to be able to return [to Barcelona], but after having experienced what I experienced and the exit I had [last time], I did not want to be in the same situation again – waiting to see what was going to happen. I heard that they had to sell players or lower players’ salaries, and the TгᴜтҺ is that I didn’t want to go through that, nor take charge of obtaining something that had to do with all that.”

Since joining MLS’s Inter Miami, Messi has achieved remarkable success. The team secured victory in the inaugural Leagues Cup, with their Argentine star earning the Golden Boot in the tournament. Nevertheless, the team’s key player faced a period on the sidelines due to ιnjᴜry towards the end of the season, resulting in their absence from the 2023 MLS Playoffs.