Xavi firmly opens door for Lionel Messi to return to Barcelona amid latest PSG setback

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Barcelona manager Xavi insists Lionel Messi will always be welcomed back to the club "as long as I'm the coach here" amid his Paris Saint-Germain struggles.

Messi, 34, was forced to leave Barcelona last summer due to the club's financial troubles and signed a two-year deal at PSG. But he's failed to flourish in the French capital, scoring just two goals in 18 Ligue 1 appearances. He managed 30 in La Liga last season.

The Argentine is widely regarded as the greatest player in Barcelona's history. He scored 672 senior goals for the club between 2004 and 2021, winning 10 La Liga titles, seven Spanish Cups, four Champions Leagues and several other honours.

Xavi was appointed Barcelona manager in November, triggering a significant revival in the club's fortunes. The Catalan giants have jumped up to third in La Liga and are tipped to win the Europa League for the first time in their history.

Messi still has 15 months remaining on his existing PSG deal and there is no indication he'll leave the club at this stage. But, considering his poor form and huge wage, the French giants may be willing to cancel his contract and allow him to re-join Barcelona.

"Messi has earned having the doors open to Barca," said Xavi ahead of Sunday evening's El Clasico against Real Madrid. "As long as I'm the coach here, if he