Is Lionel Messi Still Eyeing Newell's Old Boys for Career Finale

 As Lionel Messi prepares to face his very first club on Thursday, the question arises: will he ever return home to play before retiring?

Throughout his illustrious career, Messi has surpassed countless milestones, from winning a World Cup with Argentina to accumulating numerous trophies at Barcelona. Widely regarded as one of the greatest footballers of all time, Messi's legacy is firmly established.

Yet, amidst his myriad accomplishments, there remains one unfulfilled dream: to wear the jersey of his beloved Newell's Old Boys. Messi's journey began with this hometown team, but his career took him elsewhere, denying him the opportunity to represent an Argentinian club, let alone his cherished Newell's.

This Thursday, Messi will face his boyhood team as they visit DRV-PNK Stadium to take on his current club, Inter Miami, in a friendly match. The occasion serves as a tribute to Messi, bridging his past and present in a poignant reunion before the MLS season commences.

At 36 years old, Messi undoubtedly cherishes this opportunity, yet it also prompts reflection on whether he still harbors hopes of fulfilling his childhood dream before retiring.

Messi's bond with Newell's runs deep, rooted in his upbringing in Rosario. From attending games with his family to showcasing his prodigious talent in the club's youth academy, Newell's played a pivotal role in shaping Messi's early years. Despite scoring nearly 500 goals for the youth teams, Messi's path diverged when he was diagnosed with a growth hormone deficiency at age 10.

Unable to afford treatment, Messi's family sought assistance from Newell's, but the promise remained unfulfilled. Eventually, Barcelona stepped in, offering to cover the costs and providing Messi with a platform to launch his legendary career.

While Messi's journey led him to unprecedented heights, Newell's has always held a special place in his heart, serving as a constant reminder of the dreams he once held. As Messi faces his boyhood club once again, the allure of donning the iconic red and black stripes remains a lingering question, hinting at the possibility of a poignant homecoming before his illustrious career draws to a close.