Lionel Messi and Luis Suarez’s Inter Miami move in focus again as ex-Barcelona president Josep Maria Bartomeu drops bold claim about duo’s MLS switch

The story of Lionel Messi and Luis Suarez continues to echo through soccer, especially as their time at Barcelona remains a defining chapter. Now, former club president Josep Maria Bartomeu has brought fresh intrigue to their exits, linking past decisions to their present journey at Inter Miami in a way few expected.

Messi’s departure in 2021 marked the end of a 21-year association with Barcelona, closing one of the most iconic player-club relationships in soccer history. Despite agreeing to a reduced salary, financial restrictions and league regulations prevented the club from finalizing a new contract.

Barcelona officially cited “economic and structural obstacles” when confirming the exit, a moment that stunned fans and reshaped the club’s future. The Argentine’s emotional farewell only underlined how unexpected the situation had become, even for the player himself.

The Blaugrana’s financial crisis played a decisive role, with debts soaring and La Liga’s wage cap tightening dramatically. Even with a 50% pay cut, Messi’s contract could not be registered, as the wage bill exceeded permitted limits.

This situation created what many described as a “registration deadlock,” leaving Barca unable to retain its most valuable asset. The impact was immediate, with analysts estimating a significant drop in the club’s brand value following Messi’s exit.

What Bartomeu revealed

The narrative has taken a new turn following Bartomeu’s recent comments, which shed light on discussions that predated both players’ eventual move to the United States. “There had already been talk of a stint in Miami with both Messi and Luis Suarez,” he revealed to Cadena SER.

This claim suggests that the idea of joining Inter Miami was not spontaneous but part of a longer-term vision, potentially considered even during their Barcelona years. It adds a new layer to how their careers have unfolded since leaving Europe.

Bartomeu also defended his efforts to retain Messi, stating: “I tried to renew Leo Messi’s contract; it was essential to maintain our income level and because we were missing that player who brings a higher level of performance.”

Life after Barcelona

Following his departure, Messi joined Paris Saint-Germain before eventually moving to Inter Miami, where he has become the face of Major League Soccer. His journey reflects both adaptation and continued excellence, culminating in major achievements, including international success with Argentina.

Suarez followed a different path through European and South American soccer before reuniting with Messi in Miami. Their partnership has once again captured global attention, this time in a growing league seeking international recognition.

Back in Spain, Barcelona has been forced to rebuild, both financially and competitively. The club has undergone major restructuring, reducing debt and investing in a younger squad, though the absence of Messi’s influence remains evident. Bartomeu believes the team could have benefited from keeping the Argentine longer, stating: “One or two more seasons at Barca… would have been very positive.”