Lionel Messi has once again received recognition as the most beloved player in Barcelona’s history. A recent survey conducted by Spanish daily Sport confirmed what many fans had long known: Messi remains the club’s undisputed favourite. The award was presented as part of Sport’s Valors del Deporte gala in Miami.
In the survey, Messi surpassed legendary figures such as Xavi Hernández, Andrés Iniesta, Ronaldinho, and Johan Cruyff. Accepting the award, Messi said, “For the time being, I will be here at Inter Miami for a few more years. But we will return to Barcelona, because I have always said that is my true home.”
Joan Vehils, director of Sport, personally presented the honour to Messi in Miami. The Argentine superstar, visibly delighted, added, “I will attend Camp Nou as just another supporter, watch the matches, and continue to support the club in every way I can.”
Messi’s legendary Barcelona career spanned 2004 to 2021. During that period, he scored 709 goals in 837 matches and won 35 major trophies. His presence helped establish Barcelona as one of the world’s greatest football clubs.
Reflecting on his memories, Messi said, “We have been through so much together, the good and the bad. A relationship of so many years isn’t always easy; there are tough times too. This is my home, my place, my people. I wanted to spend my entire career there, without moving to another club. Unfortunately, circumstances were different.”
Despite the challenges, he added, “I will cherish all the moments we shared together. Leaving the club without the fans due to the pandemic was unusual, but my love for everyone at Barcelona is enduring and profound.”
