The departure of Lionel Messi from Barcelona in the summer of 2021 sent shockwaves through the footballing world. The 7-time Ballon d’Or winner bid an unceremonious farewell to his boyhood club, leaving on a free transfer to join Paris Saint Germain. The circumstances of his exit left fans and Messi himself longing for a proper farewell to the club that had been his home for decades.

However, there is a glimmer of hope on the horizon. Jorge Mas, the co-owner of Major League Soccer club Inter Miami, has stepped forward with a promise that could potentially give Lionel Messi the chance for the farewell he deserves. In this article, we’ll explore Mas’ commitment, Messi’s journey from Barcelona to Miami, and the recent developments surrounding his absence from Inter Miami’s lineup.

Messi’s Unforgettable Exit from Barcelona

The summer of 2021 witnessed one of the most significant transfers in football history as Lionel Messi, the iconic Barcelona forward, left the club where he had spent the entirety of his professional career. The reason behind this move was a bitter one – Barcelona simply couldn’t afford to offer Messi a new contract due to budget constraints.

This shocking turn of events led to rumors that Messi might make a triumphant return to Catalonia in the summer transfer window. However, instead of donning the Blaugrana colors once again, he chose to embark on a new adventure in the United States with Inter Miami.

Jorge Mas’ Promise: A Proper Farewell for Messi

Jorge Mas, the co-owner of Inter Miami, has not only signed Messi but also made a heartfelt promise to the Argentine maestro. In a recent interview with El Club del Deportista, Mas expressed his commitment to giving Messi the opportunity to say goodbye to his fans in Barcelona properly.

Mas stated, “Messi’s departure from Barcelona was not to his liking. He could not say goodbye to his club that welcomed him as a child. I think the circumstances were not what Lionel wanted. I gave him my commitment that I will do everything possible in the coming years to give him the opportunity to say goodbye to his fans in Barcelona. Inter Miami will go or we will do some kind of match.“

This promise from Mas offers a glimmer of hope to Barcelona and Messi fans worldwide. The prospect of seeing Messi back at the Camp Nou for a farewell match is undoubtedly an exciting one.

Inter Miami’s Pursuit of Messi: A Legacy in the Making

Before securing Messi’s signature, Jorge Mas engaged in a lengthy and persistent effort to convince the player and his family to join Inter Miami. He emphasized the opportunity for Messi to create a new legacy by playing a pivotal role in changing the landscape of soccer in the United States.

Mas revealed a private conversation with Messi’s father, Jorge, where he said, “Your son will have the opportunity to create a new legacy because he is going to be able to change a sport in a country.” This unique chance to leave an indelible mark on American soccer was a significant factor in Messi’s decision to join Inter Miami.

Lionel Messi’s Recent Absence from Inter Miami’s Lineup

Despite Messi’s undeniable impact on Inter Miami when he’s on the pitch, recent matches have seen him sidelined due to injury. He missed his fifth match in the last six with the MLS club when they faced Chicago Fire. Messi’s absence raised questions and concerns among fans, especially considering the team’s bid to reach the MLS playoffs.

Lionel Messi, Image via Los Angeles Times

The 36-year-old Argentine star was listed as questionable on Inter Miami’s injury report due to a lingering scar tissue ailment that has troubled him since the World Cup. He conducted individual workouts apart from the team as he continued to recover.

Challenges for Inter Miami and Messi’s Return

Inter Miami’s performance with Messi on the field has been formidable, boasting an 8-0-4 record when he plays. This includes winning their first trophy, the Leagues Cup championship, and making it to the U.S. Open Cup semifinal. However, the team has struggled, going 1-2-2 in matches without Messi since his arrival.

Sergio Busquets, a fellow teammate of Messi’s, expressed the frustration shared by Messi and the team regarding his recent injuries. Busquets stated, “The first person who wants Leo to be on the field is Leo. Second is us, his teammates because we know how important he is for us. It’s a shame, but in the world of football, you can’t control injuries.“

Lionel Messi’s journey from Barcelona to Inter Miami has been a rollercoaster of emotions for fans and the player himself. The promise made by Inter Miami’s co-owner, Jorge Mas, to provide Messi with a proper farewell from Barcelona has brought hope to fans worldwide. However, Messi’s recent injuries have raised concerns about his availability for crucial matches in Inter Miami’s quest for the MLS playoffs.

As football enthusiasts eagerly await Messi’s return to full fitness, one can’t help but wonder if he’ll get the chance to bid farewell to Barcelona in a manner befitting his legendary status in the world of football. Only time will tell if Jorge Mas can fulfill his heartfelt promise and give Messi the farewell he truly deserves.