If Lionel Messi is to make a dramatic comeback to Barcelona, he might have to play in a position he is not used to.
Nothing has been finalized yet, so Messi’s future at Paris Saint-Germain is uncertain. His contract with the club is set to expire at the conclusion of the current season.
The seven-time Ballon d’Or winner has been on fire this season, contributing to 17 goals and 18 goals for PSG in 32 games played in all competitions.
He’s been connected with what would be an emotional return to Barcelona, but if he does, he might play in a different position at the Camp Nou.
Spanish news portal Mundo Deportivo claims that Messi’s former colleague and Barcelona manager Xavi may start him in midfield.
According to rumors, Xavi would like to use Messi as one of the four midfielders in his 4-3-3 formation.
This indicates that when the left defender advances, the Argentine will probably replace the teenager Pablo Gavi as a false left winger who will move inside as a “interior.”
In addition, Messi could play on the right side as a “interior” with the assistance of midfielders like Frenkie de Jong and Sergio Busquets.
The development of Pedri, who has excelled in that position thus far this season, could be hampered if Xavi chooses to play Messi on the right side of midfield.
Messi frequently played as a striker or the right winger for Barcelona throughout his time there.
But, Messi might have to settle with a different position now that Ousmane Dembele and Robert Lewandowski appear to have those positions locked up.
Rafael Yuste, the vice president of Barcelona, has said that Messi and his representatives have been contacted.
According to The Guardian, he said:
“Leo and his family know the affection I have for them.
“I participated in the negotiations which unfortunately did not lead to a certain result. I’ve always had and I have this thorn in my side that Leo couldn’t continue at our club.
“Messi knows how much we appreciate him. I would love for him to come back. We’re in contact, of course, with them.”
