Lionel Messi Reveals the One Condition for Joining Manchester City Amid Rodri Injury Crisis

Lionel Messi, the iconic Argentine footballer, has made a surprising comment about the possibility of joining Manchester City in January, amid the club’s ongoing struggles following Rodri’s injury. While many fans have long hoped for a reunion between Messi and Pep Guardiola, this new statement suggests that a move to City could be on the cards—but only if one crucial condition is met.

Guardiola and Messi have a rich history, having forged a legendary partnership at Barcelona, where they dominated European football and broke countless records. Under Guardiola’s guidance, Messi flourished in the “false nine” role, scoring a record 91 goals in 2012 alone. Their time together at Barcelona was filled with triumph, as they collected numerous domestic and European titles.

Although their time at Barcelona was highly successful, the idea of a reunion seemed unlikely, especially after Messi’s 2021 move to Paris Saint-Germain. However, reports now reveal that the two nearly reunited at Manchester City in 2020. Author Martí Perarnau shares that Guardiola and Messi discussed a potential transfer to City, but the deal never materialized.

Perarnau describes conversations where Guardiola highlighted the intense training and hard work at City, to which Messi replied, “Doesn’t bother me. I’m ready for hard work.” Guardiola also mentioned the long tactical sessions typical of his managerial style, and Messi responded, “I’ll cope, I can handle anything you throw at me.” Despite their mutual interest, Messi stayed at Barcelona for one more season before joining PSG.

Now at Inter Miami, a reunion with Guardiola seemed increasingly unlikely. However, with Manchester City facing a string of injuries, including to Rodri, speculation about Messi’s potential return to European football has resurfaced.

In a surprising twist, Messi has revealed the one condition under which he would consider joining Manchester City: Guardiola must play a central role in how he is used. Messi clarified that although he’s not actively seeking a return to Europe, he would be open to joining City if Guardiola approached him with a clear tactical plan that aligns with his playing style and the club’s long-term goals. Messi’s focus on tactical fit and his bond with Guardiola highlight how much he values their partnership.

Given City’s recent injury struggles, this statement has sparked renewed speculation about a potential January move. While no official talks have taken place, Messi’s conditions suggest that a reunion with Guardiola remains a possibility, contingent on the tactical role City can offer him.

Messi’s commitment to his playing style and his deep connection with Guardiola could play a pivotal role in any future transfer discussions. While it remains uncertain whether Messi will return to European football, his openness to a move under the right circumstances adds an exciting twist to the ongoing narrative of his career.For now, Manchester City fans can only dream of a reunion between Messi and Guardiola. As the January transfer window approaches, all eyes will be on whether this potential move becomes a reality or if Messi will continue his journey with Inter Miami in the U.S.