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Barcelona’s golden generation dispersed a long time ago, with some members now retired and others still playing in leagues outside Europe.
Members like Xavi Hernandez have even returned to the club and overseen a stint as the manager while others like Andres Iniesta are just beginning to get started on the managerial journey.
Not all the legends, however, will take the same path after their playing days, like Gerard Pique who made it clear he would never return as a coach but would pursue an administrative role at the club.
Lionel Messi has his say
As perhaps the most important piece of Barcelona’s golden generation, Lionel Messi’s time at Barcelona did not end fittingly as the player was forced to leave after being told on the day of his renewal that the club could not afford him.
Relations between Messi and Joan Laporta have been strained ever since, but it is clear that the Argentine still has Barcelona very close to his heart. Many, thus hoped to see him as a manager at some point in the future.
Messi is entering the final phase of his career. (Photo by Carmen Mandato/Getty Images)In a recent interview via Fabrizio Romano, however, the Argentine sensation revealed that he was not looking to go down the path his former teammates were walking.
“I’m not planning to become a manager when I will retire. This is not something I’m considering to do.”
Always known as the more silent and introverted type, Messi’s decision is understandable and not very surprising for he has never, in any capacity, hinted towards a managerial future. A return with an administrative role, however, can be dreamt of.
Messi is currently playing for Inter Miami in the MLS alongside Luis Suarez, Jordi Alba and Sergio Busquets and it is rumoured that Neymar Jr may join them soon as well.
Having won the FIFA World Cup as well, it is safe to say the talisman is enjoying his final years as a professional footballer and that he is getting the farewell from the sport he so dearly deserves.
