Hansi Flick Praises Messi’s Career but Says Barcelona Can Only Do So Much

ByFranklin Eke4 days Ago2 Mins read34

Barcelona Coach Hansi Flick has spoken highly of Lionel Messi, calling him one of the finest players of the past decade and saying he has always enjoyed watching him play. When the coach was asked if Messi might return to Barcelona, Flick gave a light reply about timing and contracts, noting the decision is beyond his control.

“Messi is the best football player of the last ten years, if not more. I have always enjoyed watching him play, he is fantastic, what he has done is incredible. His contract ends in 2028, mine in 2027… it’s not up to me to train him.”

Messi’s rise from La Masia to world fame is well known. He broke into the first team in the mid‑2000s and reached new levels under Pep Guardiola, who moved him into a false nine role. Over 17 years at Camp Nou, Messi helped deliver many league titles and Champions League wins and earned most of his Ballon d’Or awards while at Barcelona.

Harry Wilson’s Hat-Trick Leads Wales to Home World Cup Play-Off Match

Financial trouble forced Messi to leave in 2021. He spent two seasons at Paris Saint‑Germain and then moved to Inter Miami in 2023, where he has boosted the profile of MLS. He later visited Camp Nou and shared a photo on social media, saying, “I hope one day I can come back, and not just to say goodbye as a player, as I never got to,” he said.

Talk of a short‑term return in January has been raised as a way for Messi to keep match sharpness during the MLS break and ahead of international tournaments. Flick’s remarks kept that option open in tone but made clear it is not his call.

Haaland’s Two Goals Propel Norway to First World Cup Since 1998; Italy Faces Risk of Another Exit

Flick also reflected on Barcelona’s current form. He led the team to the La Liga title in 2024–25 and a deep run in the Champions League, but this season has been harder. The side sits behind rivals in the league, has lost key games, and has struggled in Europe. Injuries to important players like Pedri and Marcus Rashford have been a major factor.

Some positive news has arrived with the comebacks of Raphinha and Joan García, giving Flick more choices as he seeks stability. “Perhaps right now we lack the confidence we should normally have and need,” the coach said. “But now some players are coming back, and that will help us a lot. We have a fantastic squad, and if we play at the high level we did in Vigo, everything will be fine.”