The Blaugrana icon is out of contract at Paris Saint-Germain at the end of the season.
Barcelona manager Xavi Hernandez has asked for Lionel Messi to be left in peace amid rumors linking the player with a return to Camp Nou.
Barca vice president Eduard Romeu got the ball rolling last week when he said it would be possible for the club to re-sign Messi on a financial level.
Messi, who left Barcelona for a free transfer to PSG last year, is out of contract next summer. PSG intend to discuss a new deal with him in January. For now, though, the 35-year-old is focused on the 2022/23 campaign and this winter’s World Cup in Qatar, which starts in November.
“With Leo, let’s see, but it’s not the moment to talk about it right now,” Xavi said in a press conference on Monday in Milan.
“You know the love I have for him. He is a friend and I will always wish him the best. Barca is his home, but we’re not doing him any favors speaking about [his future], either.
“Let’s leave him in peace to enjoy his time in Paris and wish him all the best.”
Barcelona take on Inter Milan in the first game of their Champions League double-header on Tuesday at San Siro. The two clubs share three points each in second place in Group C. With Bayern Munich a further three points ahead, whoever comes out on here will be in the hot seat for the group’s second and final knockout spot.
Be sure not to miss out on the latest news about La Liga
Download our brand new App and follow your favorite players, clubs, and much more
