Lionel Messi remains at the heart of Barcelona’s future plans amid growing calls for his comeback
Mark Ceria, a newly declared candidate in Barcelona’s upcoming presidential elections, has pledged to “do whatever it takes” to bring club legend Lionel Messi back to Camp Nou. The Catalan giants are set to hold presidential elections in 2026, with Ceria entering the race alongside current president Joan Laporta, Victor Font, and Xavi Vilajoana.
Ceria, a financial expert by background, officially launched his campaign platform under the name Moviment 42 during an event attended by around 700 people, according to Spanish outlet AS. His candidacy centers on restoring financial stability, increasing transparency, and giving club members a stronger voice in decision-making.
Lionel Messi at the Center of Ceria’s Vision
During a Q&A session with club members, Ceria was asked directly about the possibility of Messi’s return. His response was unequivocal:
“We already said back in 2021 that Messi was the best possible bridge between generations, both sporting-wise and economically. Barcelona needs Lionel Messi, and we will do everything necessary to bring him back.”
While Ceria did not specify what role Messi could play, his comments underline the Argentine icon’s continued symbolic and commercial importance to the club. Messi, now 38, recently extended his contract with Inter Miami for three more years, making a return as a player highly unlikely—especially with Hansi Flick currently leading Barcelona’s sporting project.
However, Messi has repeatedly expressed his desire to return to Barcelona to live with his family once his time in Major League Soccer comes to an end. That sentiment was reinforced after a discreet visit to Camp Nou, following which Messi wrote on Instagram that he deeply missed the place where he felt “happier than anywhere else” and hoped to return someday—not merely to say goodbye as a player, a farewell he never truly received.
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Financial Reform and a New Direction
Beyond Messi, Ceria emphasized the urgent need to address Barcelona’s ongoing financial struggles. He criticized rising debt levels, stagnant revenues despite inflation, and issues affecting supporters, such as high ticket prices, resale practices, and the lack of a dedicated fan zone.
“Our goal is not just to win the elections, but to protect Barcelona’s legacy,” Ceria stated. “When things aren’t working, they must change. We need real professionals and real solutions. Otherwise, this could be the last election Barcelona members ever get to vote in.”
It remains unclear whether Messi will publicly support any candidate. Reports suggest he still harbors strong resentment toward Laporta over his departure in 2021. Meanwhile, former teammate Xavi Hernández has already shown support for Victor Font.
One thing is certain: as the election race intensifies, Lionel Messi’s name will continue to play a central role in Barcelona’s political and sporting debate, with multiple candidates seeing his return—on or off the pitch—as a powerful symbol of renewal and unity.
