Potential Lionel Messi comeback has Xavi “worried.”
According to reports, Lionel Messi’s prospective return to the club due to Robert Lewandowski has Barcelona manager Xavi “worried.”
Messi, 35, was ejected from the Catalan club in the summer of 2021 after they were unable to pay his salary as a result of a financial emergency.
Even if he has been in excellent form this year, rumors of a possible return to the club persist.
Next summer, when the seven-time Ballon d’Or winner’s contract with Paris Saint-Germain expires, a decision will need to be taken on his future, with a move back to Spain still a possibility.
The Daily Mail adds that Xavi is hesitant about such a deal because of Lewandowski and is unclear of how he would integrate both players into his side.
Not to mention that they already have a strong offensive squad with players like Memphis Depay, Ansu Fati, Ousmane Dembele, Raphinha, and Ferran Torres.
When questioned about the former Barcelona star, Xavi held his cards close to his chest but wouldn’t rule out a transfer.
“Let’s see with Leo, but now is not the time to discuss it,” he said.
“You are aware of my affection for him. I will always wish him the best since he is a buddy. Although Barca is his home, we aren’t doing him any favors by discussing [his future].
“Let’s wish him the best and let him enjoy his time in Paris in peace.”
Lewandowski joined Barcelona as one of the most productive attackers in the world of football and has maintained such form at the Camp Nou this season. He was tasked with replacing Messi’s production.
With 17 goals and four more assists in only 16 games across all competitions, he has maintained his almost unachievable high standards.
The Polish attacker did not go to the UEFA Champions League quarterfinals this year; his team lost to Bayern Munich, his previous team, and Inter Milan in Group C, diverting attention to the Europa League.
Messi, Neymar, and Kylian Mbappe all had different kinds of luck as they defeated Maccabi Haifa F.C. 7-2 to guarantee their qualification.
Messi eclipsed Pele’s record for the most goals and assists in football history during the Champions League game, with two goals and two assists. It was another masterpiece from Messi and company.
Returning to Barcelona might be a dream come true for supporters, but it will undoubtedly rely on how well PSG performs this year and perhaps even what happens at the World Cup.
