Football club Barcelona is set to honor its legendary former player, Lionel Messi, by erecting a statue in his likeness. The permanent tribute will be displayed prominently outside the iconic Camp Nou stadium once its extensive renovation project is fully completed. This plan was confirmed by club president Joan Laporta, highlighting the club’s enduring respect and gratitude for the Argentine superstar.
The announcement follows Messi’s recent visit to the Camp Nou on November 9, marking his first return to the stadium since his departure from the club in 2021. His presence at the ongoing renovation site sparked widespread speculation, especially given his previous public statements expressing a desire to return to Barcelona at some point, clarifying that his last departure was not meant as a final farewell as a player.
Club president Joan Laporta elaborated on the surprise visit, confirming that the club’s leadership has been discussing and planning the construction of a statue for the 2022 World Cup winner. This initiative aims to publicly express the club’s profound appreciation and respect for Messi’s unparalleled contributions. Laporta emphasized, “Messi has always maintained a strong relationship with Barca. The doors of Camp Nou are always open to him, and he knows this well. We deeply respect Messi; he is truly deserving of the grandest ceremony of thanks we can organize. He should also have a statue at Camp Nou, much like Johan Cruyff and Laszlo Kubala, who are among the club’s greatest players and left an indelible legacy.”
Despite Messi’s past expressions of interest in a potential return to Barcelona as a player, President Laporta firmly dismissed such a possibility, stating that this scenario would not materialize.
Lionel Messi’s illustrious career at Barcelona began when he joined the club’s youth academy at the age of 13. He made his senior team debut at 17 and remained with the club until his departure in 2021. During his remarkable tenure, the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner scored an astonishing 672 goals in 778 appearances. His extraordinary talent helped Barcelona secure numerous prestigious titles, including 10 La Liga championships, 4 UEFA Champions League trophies, and 3 FIFA Club World Cups.
Meanwhile, the extensive renovation of Camp Nou has been underway for nearly 900 days and still requires additional time to reach 100% completion. Just last week, the stadium partially reopened its doors, allowing the team to conduct a training session in front of approximately 20,000 enthusiastic fans. Upon its full completion, Barcelona anticipates that the renovated Camp Nou will serve as the perfect, most beautiful venue in the world to host a magnificent tribute and expression of gratitude for Lionel Messi.
