 "Lionel Messi has helped Inter Miami top the Eastern Conference standings and also win the Supporters' Shield in just his second season with the club. Reuters")
Inter Miami’s elimination from the first round of MLS Cup playoffs has ignited speculations around Lionel Messi’s future at the Florida-based club. Head coach Gerardo Martino addressed questions about Messi’s future in his post-match press conference after defeat to Atlanta United.
“I actually don’t know how limited [Messi’s time in this league] is,” Martino remarked. “Yes, time passes, but I wouldn’t say it’s short. Looking at the context in which this began, it’s clear the club’s progress has been significant,” he reflected, highlighting Miami’s growth since Messi’s high-profile signing in 2023.
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Martino compared this season’s playoff disappointment with the prior year’s challenges, noting that Miami’s objectives have evolved with Messi on board. “The contrast between last October’s final game and today’s playoff game, along with the disappointment of not advancing, shows how the club’s goals have changed. There’s no reason not to keep aiming high next year,” he emphasized. Miami’s ambition, fueled by its co-owner David Beckham, signals plans to build on this year’s progress.
Reflecting on the season, Martino noted, “The ups and downs of this year surpassed anything in the club’s history, in a good way.”
Miami’s playoffs exit
Messi’s arrival spurred Miami from the bottom of the Eastern Conference in 2023 to a top spot in 2024. Messi contributed 23 goals and 13 assists in just 24 games.
Despite their regular-season success, Miami struggled in the playoffs. They faced Atlanta in the first round who secured the final playoff spot with a wildcard win over Montreal CF. Although Miami won the first game , they suffered a last-minute loss in game two.
In the decisive third game, Miami led briefly, but Atlanta quickly responded with two goals before halftime. Miami fought back, with Messi equalizing late, only for Atlanta’s Bartosz Slisz to net a decisive header , eliminating Miami from the title race.
Atlanta advances to face Orlando City in the Eastern Conference Semifinals, while Miami, now focused on the 2025 season, looks to make the most of Messi’s age-38 year in the league.