I'd sign Messi: Barcelona star names dream signing if he was club's sporting director
(Courtesy : LaLiga Content Hub)
Messi left Barcelona in 2021 after his contract expired.
Even if it means settling for a spot on the bench, Fermin Lopez would be thrilled to see Lionel Messi return to FC Barcelona. The 22-year-old has established himself as one of the Blaugrana’s most reliable players this season. But if the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner was to come back to Catalunya in an emotional return, Fermin would gladly give up his playing time at Camp Nou.
The legendary Lionel Messi ended his long-standing career with Barcelona in 2021 when he signed a free agent contract to join Paris Saint-Germain. Tears were shed when he left, as the legendary Argentine was driven out due to well-reported financial difficulties.
Recently, he has agreed to a new contract with the MLS Cup 2025 champions through 2028 and is currently in the United States with Inter Miami. There doesn’t seem to be much likelihood of him playing again in Europe at the age of 38.
Fermin Lopez says he will give up his place if Lionel Messi is to join Barcelona
But Fermin Lopez is willing to hold on to that dream. When asked who his ideal teammate would be, Fermin, who is another graduate of Barcelona’s renowned La Masia academy, told reporters:
“If it were up to me to sign someone for Barca, I would sign Leo Messi. If they bench me for Messi, so be it!”
Although Fermin has occasionally been left out of Barcelona’s starting lineup this season, head coach Hansi Flick frequently selects him. The 2025–26 season saw him register 10 goals and an equal number of assists, including a UEFA Champions League hat-trick against Olympiacos.
The five-cap Spain international is currently in negotiations for a new deal that would keep him in his current environment until 2031. Fermin, who has previously drawn interest from Premier League heavyweights Chelsea, is reportedly being offered a 50% wage boost and a hefty increase to his release clause.
When did Lionel Messi leave Barca?
He left the club in 2021.
Why did he leave the club?
Due to the club’s financial problem, which led to his exit.
Has Fermin played with Messi?
No, he has not yet played with Messi.
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After earning a bachelor's degree in mass media, Rajarshi began his career as a sports writer in 2019, driven by his passion for sports journalism. He has been working in the field for over six years. A devoted fan of Lionel Messi and Barcelona, Rajarshi has been involved in sports since childhood. Before turning his focus to journalism, he even represented his college at the state level. Along with covering football, he enjoys playing the game, watching movies, and experimenting with new recipes in his spare time, as cooking is one of his favorite hobbies.