Before Lionel Messi had established himself as a regular at Barcelona, he had a chance to move to Mexico. The report comes from Mediotiempo, based on information from ‘W Deportes’ and journalist Anselmo Alonso.
Back when Messi was still playing for Barcelona’s academy, the club’s hierarchy was searching for a way to give him more experience. But, he wasn’t considered ready to play with the first team at the time, which would have led to him not having enough minutes.
Lionel Messi was close to joining Necaxa before Barcelona breakthrough
The youngster was in talks to join Necaxa in Liga MX, and was seriously considered as an option by them. But they were not convinced that the young Messi would be able to play for Barcelona’s youth teams. And as a result, the deal fell through.
Messi eventually impressed in the youth teams and went on to make his debut with the first team at the age of 17. And very quickly, he became a regular for the first team and went on to become the best player the club has ever seen.
In hindsight, the decision must have been a regretful one for Necaxa considering they could have had one of the best talents in the world at their club. But, they just passed up the opportunity.
There is a chance that Lionel Messi could return to Barcelona in the summer, since he hasn’t agreed a new contract with PSG and could leave as a free agent.
