The buzz around Barcelona this week has less to do with tactics or lineups and more to do with one name that never stops stirring emotion in the city—Lionel Messi. With FC Barcelona finally returning to the renovated Spotify Camp Nou for their much-anticipated clash against Athletic Club, fans everywhere are wondering whether Messi might appear in the stands for this historic night.
Messi recently made a private, late-night visit to the new stadium, sharing photos and a heartfelt message on Instagram. In that post, he spoke openly about how deeply he misses the place and how happy he had always been there. His words reignited speculation about whether the Barcelona legend might make a public appearance when the club officially returns home.
The timing of the match has only fuelled the excitement. After months away, Barcelona are stepping back onto the Camp Nou pitch with a stadium that has been rebuilt, modernised, and designed to reflect the club’s identity for the future. It is a moment loaded with emotion for supporters, and having Messi present would make it even more memorable.
Will Lionel Messi Return to Spotify Camp Nou for Barcelona vs Athletic Club?
As of now, the club has not confirmed whether Messi will attend. There has been no official statement from Barcelona, nor any hint from Messi’s camp. His schedule and commitments with his current club also make it difficult to predict a visit with certainty. What his recent trip to the stadium did show, though, is that the connection between Messi and Barcelona remains as strong as ever.
The club’s president has already spoken publicly about plans to honour Messi permanently at the stadium, including a statue that is currently in the works. That adds even more weight to the idea that Messi may be involved in major Barcelona events going forward, even if his attendance at this specific match remains unconfirmed.
It wouldn’t be surprising if Messi decides to show up quietly, just as he did during his private visit. It also wouldn’t be surprising if he chooses to wait for a more official tribute ceremony once the stadium project is fully completed. For now, fans will watch the Barcelona vs Athletic Club match with hope, knowing that the possibility exists—because Messi’s bond with Camp Nou has never really faded.
