Recent rumors have swirled about a possible return of Lionel Messi to FC Barcelona on loan in January, but Barcelona's sporting director, Deco, has firmly addressed and dismissed these speculations. The possibility of Messi returning to Barcelona, even on a short-term loan, has been a recurring topic among fans, especially after Messi made an unexpected visit to the renovated Spotify Camp Nou a few weeks ago. This visit ignited hopes that the tensions between Messi and Barcelona's president, Joan Laporta, might be easing, leading to suggestions of a possible reunion.

However, Deco has explicitly stated that such a move is not under consideration. Speaking to Que t'hi jugues, Deco emphasized that Messi is currently under contract with Inter Miami and that a loan deal has never been discussed between the clubs or with Messi himself. "I don't think it's possible because Leo is under contract and it was never even considered," Deco stated. He further added, "The current situation is entirely speculative".

Despite dismissing the loan rumors, Deco acknowledged Messi's enduring impact on Barcelona. "Leo will have a lifelong impact," he said. "For me, Leo is the best player in the club's history, along with Johan [Cruyff] and Ronnie [Ronaldinho]". Deco also mentioned that Messi's name is often chanted in the tenth minute of Barcelona's matches, highlighting the continued admiration for the Argentine legend.

Messi's contract with Inter Miami runs through the end of 2025. There have been reports of mutual interest in extending his contract with the MLS club. Inter Miami co-owner, Jorge Mas, has expressed his desire for Messi to retire with the team and inaugurate their new stadium in March 2026.

While a return to Barcelona seems unlikely at this time, Messi's future after 2025 remains a topic of discussion. Several factors could influence his decision, including Inter Miami's performance, his personal ambitions, and his role in the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup, which will be hosted in the United States, Mexico, and Canada.

For now, Barcelona fans will have to put their hopes of seeing Messi back in the Blaugrana colors on hold. Deco's statements make it clear that the club is not actively pursuing a loan deal, and Messi remains committed to Inter Miami. While anything is possible in football, a Messi return to Barcelona in January appears to be a closed chapter for now.