Reports have circulated in recent hours regarding alleged negotiations between Lionel Messi and Newell’s Old Boys, hinting at a potential return for the Argentine superstar to his boyhood club prior to his retirement.
However, journalist Fabrizio Romano has dispelled these rumors, revealing that Messi’s current plans remain fully focused on continuing his journey with Inter Miami, where he and his family feel settled and content.
Romano stated: “There are no negotiations for Lionel Messi to return to Newell’s Old Boys, despite the reports circulating.”
He added: “Messi and his family are very happy at Inter Miami,” clarifying that the Argentina captain intends to honor his contract until at least 2028 and may even continue playing for the MLS side beyond that, with any further decisions to be evaluated closer to the time.
Inter Miami had formally announced an extension for Messi’s contract through the end of the 2028 season in October 2025, consolidating his position as the centerpiece of the club’s sporting project since his arrival in the United States from Paris Saint-Germain in the summer of 2023.
Earlier, in February, Newell’s Vice President Juan Manuel Medina disclosed ongoing efforts to structure a project aimed at bringing Messi back during the first half of 2027, though he emphasized at the time that the initiative remained purely aspirational.
While Messi maintains a deep emotional bond with Newell’s—having spent his formative academy years at the Rosario-based club prior to his move to Barcelona—a return to wear their shirt once again does not feature in his current plans, according to Romano.
