Lionel Messi Was Categorical in Denying the Rumors About a Supposed Return of His Son Thiago to Barcelona

Amidst speculations and memories of his time in Barcelona, Lionel Messi chose brevity to clear up doubts

Rumors that are back in the spotlight

In recent days, there have been reports suggesting a possible return of Thiago Messi, Lionel's eldest son, to Barcelona's youth academy. The speculation gained strength because the 13-year-old teenager had already been with Barça between 2016 and 2019, and later with PSG's youth academy during his father's stay in Paris. Moreover, the coincidence with the fifth anniversary of Messi's departure from the Catalan club on August 5, 2021, further fueled the speculation.

The word of Lionel Messi

Asked by journalist Bruno Vain, the Argentine captain was blunt and cleared up any doubts: "No," he replied when asked about the possibility of Thiago rejoining La Masia. With that statement, Messi confirmed that his son will continue his training at the Inter Miami academy, the MLS club where he himself has been playing since mid-2023. In previous interviews, Lionel had described Thiago as a playmaking midfielder: "He's more thoughtful, more of an organizer, more of a midfielder," he noted, highlighting his son's football profile.

The present in Miami

Messi's refusal not only dispels the rumors but also reaffirms the family's commitment to the sports project in the United States. Inter Miami seeks to consolidate its youth academy as a breeding ground for talent in the MLS, and Thiago's presence is part of that plan.