Lionel Messi expresses great pride in Barcelona’s “spectacular” season under new coach Hansi Flick, stating, “This is not something new.”

**Messi Lauds Barcelona’s Resurgence Under Hansi Flick**

Lionel Messi, the legendary forward and former Barcelona talisman, has expressed his admiration for his old club following their remarkable start to the 2024/25 season. The Catalan giants, who finished a disappointing 10 points adrift of rivals Real Madrid last term, have shown a renewed vigour under new manager Hansi Flick.

Last season was a tough one for Barcelona, as they were eliminated from the UEFA Champions League at the quarter-final stage by Paris Saint-Germain. However, the arrival of Flick has revitalised the squad, with young talents like Lamine Yamal, seasoned striker Robert Lewandowski, and Brazilian winger Raphinha all playing pivotal roles. The team currently sits atop La Liga, boasting an impressive record of 11 wins from their first 13 matches.

Messi, speaking to Catalan television station TV3, said, “I’m hugely proud to see how the first team is representing the club right now. This Barca side is spectacular, although it doesn’t surprise me. It is nothing new; it’s always happened, or at least since I arrived at the club as a 13-year-old.”

One of the standout performers this season has been 17-year-old Lamine Yamal, who burst onto the scene last year under Xavi’s management. Following a stellar Euro 2024 campaign with Spain, Yamal has continued to impress, contributing 14 goals in 16 appearances across all competitions this term.

Yamal is part of a talented crop of youngsters at Flick’s disposal, including Pau Cubarsi (17), Gavi (20), and a quartet of 21-year-olds: Pedri, Alex Balde, Marc Casado, and Fermin Lopez. Messi praised the club’s commitment to nurturing young talent, stating, “It’s spectacular that the kids have had chances in the last two years. When you put confidence in them, this is how they respond, because they know the club better than anyone.”

As Barcelona prepares for their upcoming Champions League clash against Brest on Tuesday, Yamal is expected to return to the squad. Flick’s side will be aiming for their fourth win in Europe this season, with the match set to be broadcast live on TNT Sports and discovery+.

In response to Messi’s glowing remarks, Flick expressed his gratitude, calling it “an honour” to receive such praise from “the best player in Barca’s history.” Messi, who netted an astonishing 672 goals in 778 appearances for the club, is widely regarded as one of the greatest players of all time.

The 37-year-old also hinted at a potential return to Barcelona, revealing his desire to settle back in the Catalan city after his stint with Inter Miami. “We still have in our mind a return to live in Barcelona,” Messi shared. “My kids, my wife, and I miss Barcelona a lot. We have friends there and left a lot of things behind when we moved.”

He added, “My kids are Catalan. I have lived most of my life there, and I feel from Barcelona. You never know where life will take you, but the intention is to live in Barcelona because it’s our home.”

As the football world watches closely, the prospect of Messi’s return to his beloved Barcelona adds an intriguing subplot to an already exciting season.