Newell’s Old Boys is embarking on a project aimed at bringing Lionel Messi to their team during the first half of 2027.
This initiative was announced by Juan Manuel Medina, the club’s first vice president, who stated, “This project transcends Newell’s. It encompasses the city of Rosario, the province, and Argentine football as a whole.”
Messi, who trained with Newell’s youth teams before transferring to Barcelona at 13, recently extended his contract with Inter Miami until the end of 2028.
The ambition to pursue Messi as a long-term target started to materialize in 2024.
Newell’s strategy aims to create a comprehensive approach that includes political, social, and sporting elements to entice Messi back, with an emphasis on making an impact that extends beyond the pitch.
This initiative includes improvements to the club’s facilities, fostering a competitive sports environment, and establishing the institutional framework suitable for a player of Messi’s stature.
Reports suggest that informal discussions have already begun with Messi’s representatives, although no significant advancements or commitments have been made yet.
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At 38, Messi joined Inter Miami in July 2023 and has played a crucial role for the team. He led Miami to its first-ever trophies, including the Leagues Cup in 2023, the Supporters’ Shield in 2024, and the MLS Cup last season.
As he prepares to captain Argentina at the World Cup this summer, Messi has not indicated when he plans to retire from football. Newell’s believes that a return to the club would be the perfect culmination of the 2022 World Cup winner’s career.