Newell’s Old Boys have officially begun outlining a roadmap to bring Lionel Messi back to Argentina for a historic professional debut in his home country in 2027.
While the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner has conquered the world with Barcelona and the Argentina national team, he has never played a professional minute for a club in his native land. Now, Newell’s vice-president Juan Manuel Medina has confirmed the club is working on a project to change that.
“We are working to have Messi play for Newell’s in the first half of 2027,” Medina told TN. “For now, it is a plan. Everything depends on the infrastructure and the competitive project we can offer him.”
Security and Infrastructure: The Hurdles
The move would mirror Rosario Central’s successful pursuit of Angel Di María, but the challenges are significant. Medina highlighted that the arrival of a global icon like Messi would require more than just a football contract; it would require a coordinated effort with the Rosario city government.
Recent security concerns in the city of Rosario remain the biggest obstacle. “The city needs to change,” Medina admitted, acknowledging that safety for Messi and his family is the top priority for any potential deal to move forward.
Closing the Circle
Messi’s connection to Newell’s is deeply emotional. He joined the club’s youth ranks as a child before moving to Barcelona at the age of 13 to undergo growth hormone treatment.
Years ago, Messi hinted at this possibility: “I have always said I would like to play in Argentine football one day. It would be at Newell’s, and only there. I’d like to do it for at least six months,” the star told El Trece.
With his current contract with Inter Miami and his future with the national team always under discussion, 2027 is emerging as the definitive date for the greatest homecoming in football history.
Thiago Nuno is a football editor and analyst covering European leagues, match statistics, and transfer market trends.
