Messi not returning Barça due to Lewandowski? 2021 Ballon d'Or caused the issue

Yamini003

The reasons behind Messi's ultimate decision not to return to Barcelona have been widely discussed. Some say it's because the current Barcelona president, Laporta, hurt Messi's feelings, making him reluctant to return. However, a recent theory suggests Messi is displeased with Lewandowski's criticism, fearing that his return would disrupt the team's atmosphere.

In fact, Messi and Lewandowski had a falling out as early as 2021. At that time, Lewandowski's performance was outstanding, and if the 2020 Ballon d'Or had not been canceled, he might have won it. However, due to the cancellation of the 2021 Ballon d'Or, Messi received the award that was originally destined for Lewandowski, creating a rift between them.

Later, Messi acknowledged that he shouldn't have won the 2021 Ballon d'Or and, during his acceptance speech, expressed his honor to compete for the award alongside Lewandowski. He believed the 2020 Ballon d'Or should have rightfully gone to Lewandowski. However, Lewandowski did not appreciate the gesture and, in an interview, stated that he hoped it was a sincere expression from an outstanding player, not just empty words. Messi, feeling dissatisfied, expressed that he had spoken sincerely and from the heart.

This incident led to a strained relationship between the two, despite both later publicly stating that they no longer cared about the issue and attributing the past dispute to a misunderstanding. Media, adept at finding traces, still believed that the two never truly reconciled. Messi also understood that not everyone in the current locker room supported his return, with players like Ter Stegen not welcoming him. The strained relationship with Lewandowski was one of the factors influencing Messi's decision not to return. If he did return, the media would undoubtedly amplify the interaction between him and Lewandowski, so Messi ultimately chose not to go back.

Samiksha

Certainly, it's because Messi's heart got hurt. Barcelona shows no emotional connection to Messi; it's purely a business transaction. When your interests aren't met, they discard you at any moment. It's not just about football king Messi; even a regular person would feel resentment.

Ritu77

Whether he returns or not, there must be reasons behind it. Speculating probably won't help.

Kahn332

Messi seems to have had disagreements with many people. Is it that when someone is famous, there's more controversy?

Jafar224

The main reason Messi didn't return to Barcelona is that Barcelona itself didn't want Messi to come back. Initially, Messi left Barcelona primarily due to the actions of President Laporta and the financial mismanagement of the club in the preceding years. Barcelona found itself heavily in debt, unable to afford to renew Messi's contract. Laporta deceived Messi, leaving a deep wound in the hearts of Barcelona fans worldwide.

Isha000

This summer, Barcelona still faced financial difficulties, and President Laporta seemed unwilling to confront Messi, resulting in no contact between the two parties. The current head coach, Xavi, who took over the team in Messi's absence, may also not be keen on Messi's return. It's worth noting that Xavi decided to return to Barcelona only after Messi's departure. Thus, Xavi might be reluctant to have Messi back as it could potentially impact his standing within the team.

As for Robert Lewandowski, Messi seemingly didn't regard him highly during his time at Barcelona. Messi was the undisputed king at Barcelona, whereas Lewandowski was not a significant figure. Despite being only a year younger than Messi, Barcelona's decision to let Messi go and sign Lewandowski on a high salary the following year is perplexing. Lewandowski's performance this season has been disappointing, and Barcelona might be regretting their choices.

Perhaps, when Messi chose to leave Barcelona, he never considered returning as a player.

Sona59

This is typical tabloid news, and given his age, the fact that he has already gone to play in the United States makes it clear that he is evidently preparing for his life and career after retirement.