Barcelona: Koeman reveals stance on possible Messi return

The Argentine icon could return to Camp Nou after spending two seasons at PSG.

Ronald Koeman has backed Lionel Messi to make a sensational return to Barcelona next summer.

Messi left Barca as a free agent when Koeman was still in charge of the Catalans. Having ended a 21-year spell at Barca, the Argentine superstar moved to Paris Saint-Germain on a two-year deal.

As Messi nears the expiration of his current deal, reports about his possible return to Camp Nou have resurfaced in the media. Koeman joins a host of Barcelona players and Xavi, who have expressed their wish to see Messi back at Camp Nou.

Speaking to Marca, the Netherlands boss said: “He is the best player in the world, anyone who can have him will be strong.

“I experienced his departure at first hand and it was a very bad day. When I see Leo in a different shirt, I still find it strange.

“I don’t know what the situation is or what Leo thinks. I’m in favour of Messi being a Barca player.”

Messi played for a year under Koeman, ending his glorious Barca spell with a Copa del Rey trophy. The Argentine’s representatives have reportedly entered negotiations with the club’s hierarchy.

However, Barca’s issues with La Liga over reducing their wage bills could prevent them from finalizing a move for their legendary No.10.