"I think that would be one of the things he would like" - Former Barcelona star reveals role at club that would suit Lionel Messi in the future

Former Barcelona forward Lobo Carrasco has tipped Lionel Messi to take on the role of a sporting director at the club in the future. He ruled out the possibility of the Argentine superstar becoming the club's president or manager.

Messi is undoubtedly Barcelona's best player of all time. The eight-time Ballon d'Or winner spent 21 seasons at the club, including 17 seasons as a professional with the senior team. He ultimately became the club's all-time leading scorer and appearance maker with 672 goals and 474 assists in 520 matches.

However, the 38-year-old unceremoniously left the club in 2021 for Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) after a failed contract renewal. Messi spent two seasons in France before moving to the MLS with Inter Miami, where he currently plies his trade.

Prior to his contract renewal with the Herons in October 2025, there were speculations of a possible return to Barcelona for Messi. The Argentine further fueled these rumors after making a surprise visit to the renovated Camp Nou in November.

Carrascao was speaking on El Chiringuito TV (via Sport) when he shared his two cents on a possible return of the Argentine star. He ruled out the possibility of Messi returning to the club as a player or running for president, but believes a sporting director role will best suit the Inter Miami star.

"I think he'd prefer to be close to the players, to be able to scout and sign this one, that one, and the other. He would take on the responsibilities of sporting director. I think that's one of the things he'd like," Carrasco said.

Carrasco also strongly dismissed the notion of Messi taking on a coaching role at Barcelona, claiming that he lacks the mentality.

"At the moment, not as a coach, unless his mentality changes drastically," he added.

Messi notably won 35 major trophies with La Blaugrana, making him the most decorated player in the club's history. It remains to be seen if the Argentine will be associated with the club in any capacity in the future.

Barcelona midfielder Pedri wants Lionel Messi to return to the club

Barcelona star Pedri was recently asked if he would like to see Lionel Messi back at the Catalan club. The Spaniard gave a positive response, adding that playing alongside the Argentine helped improve his game. He said:

"Of course (I would like Messi back at Barcelona), without a doubt. He's the best ever, and he helped me a lot the year we were together."

Messi and Pedri shared the pitch 47 times for La Blaugrana, combining for three goals, and winning the Copa del Rey in the former's final season at the club. With Messi contracted to Inter Miami until 2028, when he will be 41, a return to the Camp Nou seems highly unlikely.

Edited by Okenna Okere