Barcelona has officially confirmed that a tribute match for Lionel Messi will be held at the fully rebuilt Camp Nou stadium, once renovation works are complete.
This announcement was made by the club’s vice-president, Elena Fort, during an interview with La Vanguardia.
She emphasized that the tribute is not just a possibility but a guaranteed event, honoring the legacy of the club’s greatest-ever player.
“A tribute to Leo Messi at Camp Nou will definitely take place once the reconstruction is finished.
It’s a certainty — he’s the greatest player in our history,” Fort stated, underlining the club’s commitment to properly celebrate Messi’s contributions.
Messi, who is now 38 years old, left Barcelona in 2021 after the club was unable to renew his contract due to severe financial difficulties.
His departure marked the end of an era, with the Argentine having spent over two decades at the club, where he established himself as one of the greatest footballers of all time.
After leaving Barça, Messi spent two seasons with Paris Saint-Germain before moving to Inter Miami in 2023.
This transition effectively ended any realistic chances of a competitive return to the Camp Nou pitch.
However, fans will soon have the opportunity to see Messi don the Blaugrana jersey once more—this time in a ceremonial match meant to honor his immense impact on the club’s history.
The tribute game will be a highlight of the Camp Nou’s grand reopening, offering a symbolic farewell to the club legend in front of a packed home crowd.
The event is expected to be emotional and historic, celebrating Messi’s unmatched achievements and deep bond with the supporters.
Before the stadium is fully ready, Barcelona will continue with their scheduled activities, including a preseason tour in Asia.
Upon their return, the team will participate in the Joan Gamper Trophy on August 10, which will be held at the partially renovated Camp Nou.
The match is set to be a symbolic reintroduction to the stadium, with Italian side Como—managed by former Barça player Cesc Fàbregas—rumored to be the likely opponent.
This planned tribute to Messi serves as a gesture of gratitude and recognition, marking a fitting moment of closure for fans and for the club, as they look ahead to a new era while honoring their greatest legend.
Leave a Reply