Messi to Newell’s Old Boys: A Homecoming Dream?

The dream of a Messi to Newell’s Old Boys transfer has been reignited, fueled by compelling comments from none other than Argentine FA (AFA) president Claudio Tapia. While Lionel Messi continues to shatter records with Inter Miami in Major League Soccer, the whispers of a romantic return to his boyhood club are growing louder, suggesting a fairytale ending to one of football’s most storied careers could be more than just a fantasy. This speculation comes at a pivotal time, with questions surrounding Messi’s long-term future in the United States and the ever-present allure of a final chapter in his homeland.

The AFA President’s Endorsement: Why Tapia’s Words Matter

Claudio Tapia’s public backing adds significant weight to the transfer rumors. Speaking to TNT Sports, the AFA president was directly asked if he believed Messi would one day complete a move back to Argentina to bring his career full circle. His response was simple yet powerful: “I hope so.” While not a confirmation, this endorsement from the highest authority in Argentine football is a clear signal of the national desire to see their greatest-ever player grace the domestic league.

Tapia’s comments were made in the context of another hero’s return—Ángel Di María’s move back to Rosario Central. Seeing one World Cup winner come home has evidently sparked hope that another, more iconic, figure could follow suit. This public statement puts a certain amount of positive pressure on the situation, transforming a fan’s dream into a nationally discussed possibility. It validates the ambition of Newell’s Old Boys and gives their supporters concrete hope that they could one day see Messi in their famous red and black shirt for a competitive fixture.

The Di María Precedent

The return of Ángel Di María to Rosario Central cannot be understated as a catalyst for this conversation. Di María, a lifelong friend and international teammate of Messi, chose to return to his first club after a decorated career in Europe. This move serves as a powerful precedent, demonstrating that Argentina’s returning heroes are welcomed back with immense passion. Tapia witnessing this firsthand at Di María’s unveiling likely solidified his belief that a similar path for Messi is not just possible, but desirable for the entire footballing nation.

Unpacking Messi’s Current Situation at Inter Miami

To understand the potential for a move, one must first analyze Lionel Messi’s current contractual obligations and his monumental impact on Inter Miami. The Argentine superstar is contracted to the MLS side until the end of the 2025 season. Critically, his deal includes an option to extend for a further year, which would take him through to the 2026 FIFA World Cup, set to be co-hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada.

Inter Miami and the MLS are undoubtedly desperate to retain their prized asset. Messi’s arrival has transcended sport, boosting ticket sales, merchandise revenue, and global viewership to unprecedented levels. On the pitch, his influence is undeniable. He led the club to its first-ever trophy, the Leagues Cup, and is currently in sensational form, breaking records for goals and assists. From a sporting and business perspective, keeping Messi in Miami through 2026 is the club’s primary objective. The prospect of having the world’s most famous player on their roster during a home World Cup is a once-in-a-generation opportunity.