Instead, Barcelona are taking a long-term approach to Messi’s eventual homecoming. A tribute event is expected to be held once Camp Nou’s renovations are complete but, in the meantime, Laporta is keen to erect a statue to immortalize the club’s greatest-ever player.

The match is reportedly set to earn Argentina $13 million, making the Angola vs Argentina friendly match one of the most expensive international friendlies of all time. The match organizers predict that the match can make $10 million in tourism revenue.