Xavi says he is unsure if Lionel Messi will return to Barcelona this summer as a move would be dependent on the Argentine’s “intentions”.
Messi is out of contract with Paris Saint-Germain at the end of the season and will not renew his contract with the French giants.
Earlier in May Barça are “very confident” of bringing the World Cup winners back to Camp Nou, despite interest from Al Hilal. Messi recently took a trip to Saudi Arabia where he was disciplined by PSG.
MLS side Inter Miami also have a known desire to sign the Argentine.
Xavi, who played with Messi during his time at Barcelona, admitted the decision rests firmly with his old team-mate.
“It’s up in the air,” Xavi told reporters. “It depends on a lot of things. There’s not much more I can say. Leo is a spectacular footballer. He’s a friend. It depends on a lot of things from there, but mainly his intentions and what he wants.”
Robert Lewandowski also publicly called on the World Cup winner to return to the club for which he scored 672 goals.
“I want to play with Messi here at Barcelona. He has changed his style in recent years. It is easier to play with players who understand football as deeply as he does,” said the Polish striker.
“Messi’s playing style has evolved in recent years. He thinks differently and sets himself up on the pitch differently. He has a unique sense. We would definitely use that.”
Barcelona are currently awaiting the approval of La Liga’s viability plan, which would allow them to register players who have recently signed new contracts and pursue further signings.
Messi is expected to feature in PSG’s remaining 2022/23 matches against Strasbourg and Clermont Foot.
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