In what could become one of the most sensational football transfers in history, Manchester City is reportedly preparing a bold move to reunite Pep Guardiola with Lionel Messi following the conclusion of the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup.

Sources close to the club confirm that the Catalan manager, who shared unprecedented success with Messi at Barcelona, is personally spearheading efforts to bring the Argentine legend to the Etihad Stadium.

The prospect of this reunion has sent waves of excitement and speculation through the footballing world.

Guardiola and Messi’s partnership at Barcelona was one of the most dominant in modern football, yielding multiple La Liga titles and Champions League trophies.

Now, after years apart, the dream of seeing them together again in the Premier League seems closer than ever.

Insiders reveal that Guardiola has already engaged in informal discussions with Manchester City’s hierarchy, outlining a comprehensive plan to lure Messi to Manchester after the FIFA Club World Cup, where Messi is expected to represent Inter Miami.

The timing aligns perfectly with Messi’s contract situation, which reportedly includes a release clause effective post-tournament.

In a recent interview with a Spanish media outlet, Guardiola did not hold back his intentions.

“Lionel Messi is more than just a player.

He changed the history of football.

If there’s a way to bring him to Manchester, I will do everything in my power to make it happen,” he declared.

Such a statement has fueled widespread speculation that City is preparing an unprecedented offer — one that transcends salary and touches on legacy and influence.

According to sources within Manchester City, the proposed contract for Messi is unlike anything ever offered before in football.

The deal reportedly includes a dual role for Messi — not only as a player but also as a global ambassador for City Football Group.

This role would allow him to influence the club’s international branding and development, extending his impact far beyond the pitch.

Moreover, the contract would include lifetime post-retirement options, enabling Messi to manage, mentor, or direct youth development across City Football Group’s extensive global network of clubs.

This package has been described as “football’s most powerful contract,” designed to immortalize Messi’s name within the City project for decades to come.

Messi’s current tenure at Inter Miami has been transformational for the MLS, where he has become the face of soccer in the United States.

However, reports suggest that his contract contains a release clause effective after the December 2025 Club World Cup, providing a clear exit route back to Europe.

Interestingly, David Beckham, co-owner of Inter Miami, maintains close ties with Manchester City officials.

This relationship could facilitate a smooth and respectful transfer, should Messi decide to return to European football.

Beckham’s influence and vision for football’s global growth may help bridge any gaps between the clubs.

For Messi, the move offers a compelling opportunity to pursue another shot at Champions League glory with a top-tier squad, mentor emerging stars like Phil Foden, Erling Haaland, and Kevin De Bruyne, expand his influence on football’s global stage through leadership roles, and craft a final chapter in European football that rivals his peak years at Barcelona.

Beyond his playing career, Messi’s involvement in City Football Group’s leadership could redefine his legacy, allowing him to shape football development across continents and generations.

Social media has exploded with excitement and debate.

Hashtags such as #MessiToCity and #PepAndLeo have gone viral, with fans dreaming of the duo rewriting football history in Manchester’s sky blue.

While some express concerns about Messi’s age — he will be 38 at the time of the potential move — many argue that no player deserves a legendary send-off more than the Argentine maestro.

Football has taught fans never to discount the improbable.

From Cristiano Ronaldo’s move to Saudi Arabia to Messi’s MLS adventure, the sport’s landscape is constantly evolving.

A reunion between Guardiola and Messi at Manchester City, backed by unlimited resources and historic ambition, is no longer just a fantasy — it is a very real possibility that could shake the football world to its core.

Will Lionel Messi don the Manchester City shirt before he retires? Only time will tell.

But one thing is clear: Pep Guardiola is ready to move heaven and earth to make it happen.