In the summer, Lionel Messi joined Inter Miami, but there were recent rumors of a potential return to Europe to conclude his career.

However, after winning the Ballon d’Or on Monday, setting a new record for the most Ballon d’Or trophies won by a single player, he denied these speculations.

When asked during an interview with L’Equipe if his time in Europe was over, he responded, “Yes. Thank God, I had an outstanding career in Europe and won everything I dreamt of. Now, having decided to come to the United States, I don’t think I will ever return to playing in Europe.”

Messi also commented on rumors of a potential return to Barcelona, saying, “I could return, but it was not meant to be. It was somewhat similar to what happened in 2021. It was very much like when I had to move to Paris [PSG] in 2021. I thought about my life there, about retirement, as I always wanted, but it was impossible.”

Lionel Messi played for European clubs for 23 years. He joined Barcelona from Newell’s Old Boys on July 1, 2000, and spent 21 years at the Catalan club before playing two more years at PSG. There have been rumors of a potential return to his hometown club, Newell’s Old Boys, once his two-year contract with Miami expires in 2025, but for now, these are purely speculative theories.