Lionel Messi’s glittering career could be heading for yet another pivotal turn, as the Argentine maestro reportedly considers leaving Inter Miami to chase sharper competition ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Despite the calm, family-oriented life he has embraced in the United States, Messi’s hunger for elite-level football may drive him to seek new pastures.
The 36-year-old forward’s current contract with Inter Miami is set to expire at the end of 2025, but sources suggest that contract renewal talks have stalled. With the 2026 World Cup set to take place in North America, Messi is believed to be weighing a move to a more competitive league in a bid to stay at the peak of his powers for Argentina's title defense.
Club World Cup humiliation sparks reevaluation
Inter Miami’s recent 4-0 thrashing by Paris Saint-Germain in the Club World Cup Round of 16 has reportedly intensified Lionel Messi’s desire to test himself once more against top-tier opposition. The Argentine’s drive to remain match-fit and sharp at the highest level is well documented, and that heavy defeat appears to have reignited his competitive edge.
According to journalist Esteban Edul, Messi has halted all contract discussions with Inter Miami for now. While his current deal includes a 12-month extension option, neither side has exercised it, adding further fuel to the exit speculation.
Lionel Messi's family happiness vs. competitive urge
Journalist Guillem Balague previously told BBC Sport that Messi’s family is flourishing in Miami. His wife, Antonella, is actively engaged with American fashion brands, including Tiffany and Adidas, while his sons are fully immersed in Inter Miami’s youth setup.
“Will he commit his future to Inter Miami? After an unhappy two-year stay in Paris, on a personal level, the Messi family are in a good place in Miami,” said Balague. “If his family are happy, then so is Messi.”
This tug-of-war between personal satisfaction and professional ambition could define the final chapter of Lionel Messi’s illustrious career.
Club hopes for continuity, but decision still pending
Despite the uncertainty, Inter Miami remains optimistic about extending their partnership with the World Cup-winning legend. A source close to the club told Fabrizio Romano:
"Leo is under contract until the end of 2025. The reality is that both parties are interested in continuing the relationship. The necessary steps are being taken with the right mindset to make it happen.”
However, until Lionel Messi officially activates the extension clause or signs a new deal, speculation will continue to swirl around his next move.
Messi will be back in action for Inter Miami this Sunday as they take on CF Montréal in the MLS. But whether he remains in pink and black beyond 2025—or even the next transfer window—may depend on how seriously he values game-time at the highest level with the 2026 World Cup looming.