But he left the club in 2021 due to their financial difficulties after an emotional farewell and headed to Paris Saint-Germain.

The 36-year-old won Ligue 1 twice during his two years in France and captained his country to World Cup glory last December before then leaving PSG to join the David Beckham-owned Inter Miami in the MLS this summer.

Messi, who has lifted the Ballon d’Or a record eight times, snubbed lucrative deals in Saudi Arabia and a Barcelona return for America and has since secured them their first piece of silverware as they won the Leagues Cup.

However, despite seeing him enjoying life in Florida, his former Argentina team-mate and close friend Aguero has told AS that “sometimes I just think it’s a matter of time” before he heads back to Barcelona.

The former Manchester City striker insisted that it is something that the duo “haven’t discussed” but he added that: “Leo always said that he loves Barcelona.”

And he also said that the veteran still feels “very identified with the club and city”.

Barca have stated their desire to arrange a friendly game in order to give Messi the opportunity to say a proper goodbye to supporters.

Inter Miami’s deal with Messi includes the option for him to become a stakeholder in the club.

That contract runs until 2025, with the option for a 12-month extension.

Messi has also discussed the possibility of returning to his boyhood team Newell’s Old Boys back in Argentina before retirement.