Lionel Messi is gearing up for another shot at the FIFA World Cup in 2026, representing Argentina with hopes of securing their fourth title. However, the soccer world is buzzing about his future with Inter Miami, as his contract is up in 2025. After a recent defeat by PSG in the Club World Cup, insider Fabrizio Romano mentioned that both Messi and the MLS club are keen on extending his stay. “The necessary steps are being taken with the right mindset to make it happen,” reported Romano.
Many are wondering if Messi will remain in Miami or explore other opportunities before the World Cup. Having joined Inter Miami in 2023, Messi has become the club’s all-time leading scorer with 50 goals, and has snagged two trophies, although the MLS Cup still eludes him. He’s the highest-paid player in the league, earning around $20.5 million annually, which is more than 21 other MLS teams’ entire payrolls combined.
Inter Miami is preparing to unveil a new stadium in 2026, and team owner Jorge Mas is enthusiastic about Messi being part of that milestone. “We wish for Messi to finish his career here,” Mas shared with ESPN. Off the field, Messi seems to have found a comfortable life in Miami, with his sons involved in the club’s development academy and his family regularly attending games.
The idea of Messi returning to Barcelona is a romantic one for fans, especially after his emotional farewell in 2021. Barcelona is renovating Camp Nou, but their ongoing financial issues, which led to Messi’s exit, haven’t been fully resolved. These challenges have impacted their ability to sign players like Dani Olmo and may hinder potential future signings.
There’s also talk about Messi possibly joining Pep Guardiola at Manchester City, reviving a successful partnership from their Barcelona days. Although there were links to City before Messi joined PSG, such a move remains challenging. Guardiola has always spoken highly of Messi, but integrating him into the Premier League squad would be complex.
Another potential move could have been to Saudi Arabia with Al Hilal, reigniting the rivalry with Cristiano Ronaldo. However, rumors of Messi’s father meeting with the Saudi club were dismissed by soccer insider Guillem Balague. The anticipation around Messi’s future is high, with most speculating he’ll likely extend his contract with Inter Miami before the MLS season kicks off in 2026.
Messi’s journey continues to captivate fans worldwide, and any significant career shifts will likely unfold after the 2026 World Cup. His career decisions are as closely watched as his on-field performances, ensuring that wherever he goes, the world will be watching.
