Xavi Invites Messi Back To Barcelona Ahead Of Clasico

Barcelona manager Xavi Hernández has opened the door for former teammate Lionel Messi to make a return to the club less than a year after he left.

Messi left Barcelona last summer after 21 years at the club when they could no longer afford to renew his contract due to financial challenges.

The Argentine moved to PSG on a free transfer and has struggled to replicate the form which won him a record seventh Ballon d’Or.

Messi has only managed two league goals for his side since his move much to the chagrin of the PSG fans who were very audible in showing their displeasure, booing him and Neymar in their last match.

Several reports have claimed that the 34-year-old is unhappy at PSG and would welcome a move back to Barcelona.

Speaking ahead of the Clasico on Sunday, Xavi revealed that Messi could return to Barcelona any time he wishes.

“He is the best in history and he’ll always be welcome at Barcelona,” he told the media.

“As long as I’m coach, it doesn’t matter if he wants to come here every day. I think we owe him a huge amount.”

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However, Xavi was quick to add that Messi was still under contract with PSG and it would be inappropriate to discuss a move to Barcelona but encouraged him to come around if only for a visit.

“He has a contract with PSG and there is little we can say. Like whether he wants to come here every day to watch the training sessions and talk to the coach. What he has given us is priceless.”

Barcelona have attempted a rebuild of the squad after the departure of Messi and former manager Ronald Koeman who was replaced by Xavi.

Things are finally looking up financially for the Blaugrana who recently announced a $300m deal with Spotify to become their new sponsor from next season.

They seem to have steadied their on-pitch issues too as they currently sit third in La Liga after a difficult start to the season.

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