Barça chief financial officer Romeu: Messi’s return possible – but only on a free transfer
Lionel Messi
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Barça chief financial officer Romeu has spoken about a possible return of Lionel Messi. A transfer is possible, but only free of charge.
At FC Barcelona they continue to dream of a Messi return. CFO Eduard Romeu has now explained that a comeback for the 35-year-old is possible – but only with a free transfer.
Tearfully said goodbye Lionel Messi from Barcelona in the summer of 2021 and moved to Paris on a free transfer. The seven-time Ballon d’Or winner has signed a two-year contract with PSG until 2023 – with an option for a further season.
After a rather unlucky first year, the 35-year-old recently said he’s feeling a lot better this season. Five goals and eight assists in the first ten games (Ligue 1 and Champions League) confirm this impression.
And yet Barça seems to continue to dream of a return of the club icon. President Joan Laporta had opposed in July ESPN already raised hopes: “I think, I hope and wish that the Messi chapter at Barça is not over yet. And I think it is our responsibility to make sure that this chapter that is still open, that is not yet complete, has a moment when it can be completed the way it should have been completed and has a much brighter ending than it did.”
Barça chief financial officer makes Messi statements sit up and take notice
Now Vice President and Chief Financial Officer Eduard Romeu spoke on the radio show ‘El Mati’ Radio Catalunya about a possible Messi comeback. “Since it would be a free transfer, that’s certainly possible,” he said. So financially this is feasible – if you could get Messi on a free transfer. “He is an icon at the club, this will always be his home but it will be a technical decision,” continued Romeu.
The Barça chief financial officer also limited the hopes somewhat. The club must continue to take “austerity measures”. “We saved Barça but we haven’t solved the problem yet,” said Romeu. There is still a lot to do: “In the 2024/25 season we will be at the level that suits us.”
How Messi himself plans is still open. According to consistent media reports, he only wants to make a definitive decision after the World Cup in Qatar.
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This article was originally published on 90min.com/de as Barça chief financial officer Romeu: Messi’s return possible – but only on a free transfer released.