Barcelona already planning a special tribute for Messi

The Sporting Director of FC Barcelona, Deco, has explained the club’s intention to organize a farewell and tribute match for Leo Messi wearing the blue and red shirt. But don’t start planning a trip to the Catalan city just yet.

“It will be a farewell match, but perhaps at the new [Camp Nou] stadium when it’s ready. He will always be the greatest idol in the club’s History.

“He will for sure play a farewell match at Barcelona. When will it be? We don’t know. He’s still playing, and hopefully, he’ll play more years because people who love football will be happy to see him happy,” Deco said in an interview with the Brazilian outlet Lance.

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Deco talks Messi tribute at Barça

The Brazilian-born former Portugal star, spoke more about Messi, who once again was rumoured as a reinforcement for Barcelona, even in the upcoming winter transfer window.

“He is happy now, and that is what I believe he had to seek in his career. Returning to Barcelona would be something spectacular because he is the greatest player in History, but things happened as they did, and it’s evident that he is content. That’s what matters most.”

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Neymar, Roque and FFP

Similarly, Deco explained the challenges of trying to finalise a deal with another former Batça star, his compatriot Neymar.

“He’s a fantastic player. Obviously, he would fit in at Barcelona, but there was never a real possibility, beyond his desire to return to Barcelona,” noted Deco, assessing his role as Barcelona’s sporting director since this summer.

“This summer was very complex. It wasn’t an easy transfer window because we had the limitations of Financial Fair Play, which required us to be smart in the market. That phase has passed, and now it’s about day-to-day operations, post-match discussions, and the relationship with the coach, which is crucial. I have a fantastic relationship with Xavi, and things have been going very well.”

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On the potential early arrival of Vitor Roque, who was signed this summer in anticipation of the next season, Deco explained.

“We know that we have one of the best center-forwards in the world, Lewandowski, but there will come a time when we need someone for that position. For Vitor, being able to join Barcelona with a reference like Lewandowski would be a fantastic learning experience. We are trying to make this happen as soon as possible.”