Lionel Messi described Barcelona as the club of his life, stating that it remains difficult to sum up two decades in the city in just a few words. Speaking to the Spanish news agency EFE in Oviedo, the 39-year-old addressed the media at the Hotel de la Reconquista ahead of receiving the 2026 Princess of Asturias Award for Sports at a ceremony presided over by Spain’s King and Queen. Hundreds of supporters, many of them Argentine, gathered outside the venue. We were lucky enough to win everything” – Lionel Messi sheds light on successful stint at Barcelona.
Reflecting on his journey, the Inter Miami star recalled moving to Barcelona’s academy from Rosario in 2000 before departing in August 2021 due to financial obstacles and La Liga regulations that blocked a new contract. He noted that sharing a dressing room with teammates like Xavi, Andrés Iniesta, Carles Puyol, and others was an immense privilege. He added that securing the 2022 World Cup with Argentina after winning everything at club level served as the ultimate completion of his career, describing it as more than a dream. According to he now plays for Inter Miami and, (via Fabrizio Romano ) about his former club.
During his illustrious career at Camp Nou, Messi captured a club-record 35 trophies, consisting of 10 La Liga titles, four Champions Leagues, seven Copas del Rey, eight Spanish Super Cups, three UEFA Super Cups, and three Club World Cups. After making his first-team debut on October 16, 2004, he established club records for both appearances with 778 and goals with 672.
Looking ahead, Barcelona president Joan Laporta announced in September that the club intends to host a tribute for Messi once renovations at the Spotify Camp Nou are finished, with completion targeted for early 2028.
