Lionel Messi looks poised to extend his stay in the United States as Inter Miami moves closer to securing his services for another season. Since arriving in Major League Soccer (MLS), the Argentine superstar has transformed Inter Miami into a competitive force, and the club is eager to retain him beyond his current contract, which expires at the end of 2025.
Contract Talks Reach Advanced Stage
According to The Athletic, Messi and Inter Miami are now in advanced discussions over a contract extension. Although financial terms are still being finalized, both sides are optimistic about an agreement that would see the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner remain in pink and black through next season.
Jorge Mas Hints at Messi’s Long-Term Future
Inter Miami co-owner Jorge Mas recently spoke to FDP Radio Miami, offering an encouraging update about Messi’s future with the franchise.
“The stars are aligning for something great, for a beautiful future for the club and for Lionel. It’s solely his decision,” Mas said. “I expect that within 60–90 days we’ll have to determine all of this. My hope has always been—and everything we’re doing—is to see Messi play at our new stadium in 2026. Hopefully, that happens.”
Freedom Park to Become Messi’s New Stage
If the deal goes through, Messi is expected to play at Miami Freedom Park, the club’s upcoming stadium that’s set to open next season. This aligns with Inter Miami’s broader ambitions of building a long-term project around their most iconic player.
Impact Since Arrival and 2024 Form
Messi joined Inter Miami on a free transfer after his contract with Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) ended. Since stepping foot in MLS, the World Cup-winning captain has lit up the league, scoring 42 goals and providing 21 assists in 49 matches across all competitions.
In the current season alone, he’s been in red-hot form—netting eight goals and assisting three in just nine appearances, further solidifying his status as the most important player on the roster.
CONCACAF Champions Cup Heroics
Messi’s magic was on full display recently when he spearheaded a dramatic comeback for Inter Miami in the CONCACAF Champions Cup. Facing LAFC, Messi bagged two goals, including a clutch penalty in the 84th minute, sealing a 3-1 victory on the night and a 3-2 aggregate win to propel Miami into the semifinals for the first time in club history.
MLS Legend in the Making
Having led Argentina to World Cup glory in 2022, Messi’s move to the U.S. was already historic. But what he’s doing in Miami is further cementing his legacy—not just as one of the greatest footballers of all time, but also as one of the most influential athletes to ever grace American sports.