Lionel Messi is arguably the most important player in Barcelona’s history, yet he hasn’t received a dignified send-off from the Catalan club. This has led Joan Laporta’s administration to seek a special tribute for the Argentine star, who is nearing the end of his football career.
Among the rumors circulating is that the administration is seriously considering renaming Camp Nou after Lionel Messi once renovations are completed next year. This would be the ultimate honor for the Argentine maestro, in addition to the statue expected to be erected directly in front of the stadium.
This tradition is followed by many clubs and countries with influential figures, such as Real Madrid’s legendary president Santiago Bernabéu, Diego Armando Maradona in Naples, and Ferenc Puskás at the stadium in Budapest, Hungary. Even Barcelona itself has named its smaller stadium after its legendary player, Johan Cruyff.
Barcelona’s sporting director, Deco, was asked about the possibility of renaming the Camp Nou after Messi in the future. He responded diplomatically, saying, “For me, Leo is the best player in Barça’s history.”
The Portuguese added, “Messi, Johan Cruyff, Kubala, Xavi… tributes are usually held when they’re no longer playing.”
He concluded, “His name will always be linked to the club, but this is a more complex decision to make.”
It’s worth noting that Barcelona has a contract with Spotify to display its name on the Camp Nou, which makes renaming the stadium after Messi relatively complicated. However, the idea remains a possibility and could be realized at some point.
