Barcelona president Joan Laporta has expressed a strong desire to organize a tribute match for Lionel Messi, recognizing him as the greatest footballer in the club's history. This highly anticipated event is planned for when the Camp Nou reconstruction, a key part of the Espai Barça project, is fully completed and the stadium reaches its 100,000 capacity. Messi, despite holding numerous club records for goals and appearances, departed Barcelona under unceremonious circumstances, following Laporta's failure to deliver on a promised contract renewal. The club now aims to rectify this, providing a proper send-off for the Argentine legend.

Laporta reiterated these sentiments during the partial opening of the Camp Nou. He stated, "Of course, I’d love that. It would be a beautiful way to show gratitude and recognition." He emphasized that once the stadium reaches its full 100,000 capacity, they will be able to hold the tribute that Messi, the club, and their shared achievements deserve. However, Laporta noted a significant timeline constraint: the tribute likely won't happen before the end of 2026, as that is when club elections are scheduled. He expressed his happiness to lead the tribute if he remains president at that time.

The Camp Nou rebuild is the centerpiece of the ambitious Espai Barça project, which officially commenced in mid-2023. The project involves phased completion, allowing the stadium to reopen partially while finishing touches continue. Currently, Barcelona has secured a first occupancy license for a reduced capacity of 26,000 fans. The overall Espai Barça project timeline indicates completion across remaining phases extending into 2026, with plans to eventually host 48,000 fans before reaching the ultimate 100,000 capacity. This phased approach allows the club to gradually welcome fans back while construction progresses.

Messi's immense legacy at Camp Nou is undeniable, marked by countless memorable performances, including one brilliant individual display against Jurgen Klopp's team, which later won the Champions League, witnessed by 98,000 spectators. This history underscores the significance of the planned tribute in honoring a player who defined an era for the club.