Hansi Flick, Barcelona coach, when asked if he’d accept Messi’s return:
“You must be joking, right? We’re talking about Lionel Messi — not just any footballer, but the footballer who changed the very language of the sport. This is the man who made the impossible seem routine, who brought magic to Camp Nou night after night, and who inspired millions — not just Barça fans, but the entire world.
Messi isn’t someone you simply ‘fit into a lineup.’ No. You build an entire system, an entire philosophy, around him. He’s the kind of player who elevates not just games, but careers. Players around him play better. Coaches look smarter. Fans fall in love with the game all over again.
Even now, after all he’s achieved, Messi doesn’t need to prove anything. He’s already immortal in football’s history books. Honestly, I don’t think there’s a coach on this planet — past or present — who would ever say no to Messi. If the opportunity ever arose, you don’t hesitate. You open the doors, you clear the path, and you say: ‘Welcome home, Leo.