The dream of return draws closer… An Argentine project to bring Messi back to his roots
Argentine football is quietly moving toward a dream that could turn into a historic moment: bringing Lionel Messi back to his roots to wear the shirt of Newell’s Old Boys, the club where his journey began before conquering world football.
Newell’s vice president Juan Manuel Medina told Argentine outlet TN that the club is currently working on a special and ambitious project aimed at making Messi’s return possible during the first half of 2027, while stressing that no official agreement exists at this stage.
Medina explained that the project goes far beyond football, describing Messi’s potential return as an initiative for the city of Rosario, the province, and Argentine football as a whole, given its sporting, economic, and social impact.
Despite Messi renewing his contract with Inter Miami until the end of 2028, his name remains central to this long-term vision, which has also gained support from local authorities in Rosario, underlining the seriousness of the idea.
Initial contacts reportedly began in 2024, but what was once mere speculation is now a structured plan led by club president Ignacio Pueyro, elected in December 2025.
As part of the preparations, Newell’s has renovated the Marcelo Bielsa Stadium and upgraded the Jorge B. Griffa training complex to provide an environment worthy of a potential Messi return.
Although no final decision has been made, Medina confirmed that the idea has already been discussed with Messi’s entourage. Should the plan materialize, Messi could return to Argentine football at the age of 41, in a move that could reshape the local game.
