 "Lionel Messi in action for Inter Miami. Image: Reuters")
Lionel Messi’s stint in Major League Soccer (MLS) may be set for an exciting extension, with Inter Miami reportedly nearing an agreement to secure the Argentine legend’s future beyond 2025. Talks are understood to be in the final stages, with reports suggesting a new contract is in the works.
All you need to know about Messi’s new contract
According to reports, the 37-year-old forward is expected to re-sign with Inter Miami, extending his initial deal signed in July 2023, which was due to expire at the end of 2025. The news has been confirmed by Inter Miami’s managing owner Jorge Mas, who recently expressed optimism during an interview with FDP Radio Miami.
“The stars are aligning for something great, for a beautiful future for the club and for Lionel. It’s solely his decision. My hope has always been — and everything we’re doing — is to see Messi play at our new stadium in 2026," Mas was quoted as saying.
Mas said that a final decision could arrive within 60 to 90 days as both parties are working on the final terms of the agreement. The new deal is closely tied to the unveiling of the Miami Freedom Park, Inter Miami’s new 25,000-seat stadium set to open in 2026. The Chase Stadium in Fort Lauderdale is hosting Miami games for the last season.
Messi’s massive impact since joining MLS
Since joining Inter Miami as a free agent from Paris Saint-Germain in 2023, Messi has made a huge impact on the club and the league. In just 48 appearances, he has netted 42 goals and provided 21 assists, helping the club win its first MLS Supporters’ Shield in 2024 and qualify for the FIFA Club World Cup this year.
Most recently, Messi scored twice in a comeback victory over Los Angeles FC, securing Miami’s spot in the CONCACAF Champions Cup semifinals against the Vancouver Whitecaps. He’s also in great form this season with eight goals in nine appearances, including five goals in CONCACAF Champions Cup.
Messi has eyes on FIFA World Cup 2026?
The extended stay in Miami may also benefit Messi in terms of preparations ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which is set to be hosted in the United States, Canada, and Mexico. Argentina will enter the competition as defending champions having won the previous edition in Qatar 2022.
Messi recently missed out on Argentina’s last two World Cup qualifiers against Uruguay and Brazil due to injury concerns. However, he featured in Argentina’s games during international breaks in October and November. Messi will next be seen in action during Inter Miami’s upcoming MLS match against the Chicago Fire late on Sunday night.