Barcelona are still paying the pending salaries of Lionel Messi, Sergio Busquets, and Jordi Alba, according to Mundo Deportivo. The Argentinean superstar left Camp Nou in 2021 following the end of his contract with the Catalans. The Spanish duo, meanwhile, parted ways with the club in the summer of 2023. All three players now ply their trade with Inter Miami in the MLS.
Lionel Messi rose through the ranks at Barcelona and is arguably their greatest-ever player. The eight-time Ballon d’Or winner, largely considered the greatest of all time as well, is the Catalans’ most decorated player too.
The Argentinean was forced to leave the LaLiga giants in 2021 at the end of his contract. The club were unable to afford a renewal due to their poor finances, with the player ultimately joining Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) as a free agent.
Lionel Messi was the highest earner at Barcelona during his final season. It now appears that the club were unable to pay his dues immediately upon his departure. Jordi Alba and Sergio Busquets were also on robust salaries, which was also one of the reasons behind the club’s poor finances.
However, all three former players will have their dues cleared by the end of this season. The payments will only impact the club’s treasury and won’t be calculated as part of this season’s expenditure.
Lionel Messi could return to Barcelona next month
Lionel Messi could be back at Barcelona in November this year to celebrate the club’s 125th anniversary, according to reports (via Goal). The Argentinean has been in spectacular form this season for Inter Miami, registering 19 goals and 12 assists from 21 games across competitions.
His efforts have helped the Herons win the Supporters’ Shield and they are now eyeing the MLS Cup. The six-time European Golden Boot winner could be back at his old hunting ground later this year. The LaLiga giants are expected to acknowledge his contribution to the club’s history.
However, the event is scheduled for November 29, which could fall right in the middle of Inter Miami’s MLS Cup playoffs. Messi’s participation in the celebration is now under doubt, especially if the Florida-based club reach the final of the MLS Cup.
The Argentinean is unlikely to travel to Europe in the middle of preparations for the grand occasion, which is scheduled for December 7. However, the 37-year-old could opt to record a message which will be played at Barcelona’s anniversary gala.
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