Messi’s Emotional Oviedo Tribute Highlights Bond with Barcelona Ahead of Prestigious Award
Messi’s heartfelt message to Barcelona during his return to Spain
While attending the Princess of Asturias Awards in Oviedo, the Inter Miami forward took a moment to reflect on the deep connection he still feels with the Catalan capital that shaped most of his professional life. In an interview with EFE, the Argentine legend spoke openly about the affection he holds for both the city and the club that defined his career.
“Barcelona occupies a special place in my heart,” he said, emphasizing that the feelings he has for the club and the city are unlikely to fade. He admitted that trying to capture the significance of the club in a few sentences is a daunting task because Barcelona has been woven into the fabric of his life. Messi recalled living many wonderful moments in the city, both on and off the pitch.
Looking back on an era of unrivaled success
The former Barcelona star highlighted the unique blend of triumph and enjoyment that characterized his years in Catalonia. He noted that the team was fortunate to win every major trophy, but what mattered most was the way they achieved those victories – with passion, camaraderie, and a genuine love for the game. "We cherished the daily routines, the training sessions, and the simple joy of playing together," he reflected.
Messi also expressed gratitude for having shared the dressing room with icons such as Xavi Hernández, Andrés Iniesta, Carles Puyol and many other teammates whose influence helped shape his footballing philosophy.
Princess of Asturias Award – a milestone beyond football
Messi is set to receive the 2026 Princess of Asturias Award for Sports on 23 October at the historic Teatro Campoamor in Oviedo. The ceremony, attended by members of the Spanish royal family, will place him alongside a distinguished roster of past laureates that includes tennis champion Serena Williams, tennis great Rafael Nadal and Formula 1 legend Michael Schumacher.
For Messi, the honor represents more than personal achievement; it is a recognition of the collective effort of his family, teammates and supporters who have stood beside him throughout his journey.
Celebrations in Asturias
The region has already welcomed the football icon with traditional bagpipes and festive displays, underscoring the cultural significance of the award. Social media posts from the Fundación Princesa de Asturias captured the enthusiastic reception, with images of the award ceremony and messages of congratulations flooding the platform.
Implications for Inter Miami’s upcoming fixture
Messi’s trip to Spain raised questions about his availability for Inter Miami’s next match, a clash against Red Bull New York scheduled for 24 October in Harrison, New Jersey. The timing leaves only a few hours between the award ceremony and the departure to the United States.
Inter Miami’s head coach, Kily González, addressed the situation, confirming that the Argentine will travel immediately after the ceremony and is expected to feature in the New York game. González stressed that the club fully supports Messi’s participation in the award ceremony, describing it as a momentous occasion for both the player and his family.
With Miami already assured a spot in the MLS playoffs, the upcoming match carries reduced pressure. The coaching staff plans to manage Messi’s workload carefully, aiming to keep the captain in optimal condition for the decisive stages of the postseason.
Looking ahead
Messi’s appearance in Oviedo serves as a reminder of the global reach of his legacy, bridging his storied past in Barcelona with his current role in Major League Soccer. While the award night adds a historic accolade to his résumé, fans can also anticipate his swift return to the pitch, where he will continue to lead Inter Miami as they gear up for the playoff push.
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