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Messi’s Future Becomes Clear After Leading Inter Miami To First ConcaChampions Semifinal
After helping Inter Miami reach their first-ever ConcaChampions semifinal, signs point toward Lionel Messi extending his stay beyond 2025. According to David Ornstein of The Athletic, negotiations for a contract extension are advanced and close to being finalized.
Messi closer to staying than leaving
Lionel Messi’s impact at Inter Miami goes beyond what happens on the pitch. Since his arrival, he’s led the club to its first-ever Leagues Cup in 2023, the Supporters’ Shield in 2024, and now a place among the final four of the ConcaChampions. And the next chapter of his career may still unfold in South Florida.
As reported by David Ornstein of The Athletic, Inter Miami and Messi are nearing an agreement to extend his contract, which is currently set to expire at the end of 2025. While the final terms are still being discussed, talks are said to be advanced and an official signing is expected soon.
The extension would not only allow the Argentine star to continue playing for the club but also lead them into their new stadium in 2026. Club co-owner Jorge Mas revealed in an interview with Fútbol de Primera that discussions are ongoing and the vision includes Messi as a long-term figure in the organization.
More than a player, a legacy in the making
“My hope has always been to see Lionel Messi playing in our new stadium in 2026,” said Jorge Mas, who also confirmed that the player would become a club partner and shareholder after retirement. “This isn’t just a relationship between a president and a player. It’s a family bond. He wants to leave something lasting for his children.”
Messi is reportedly enjoying life in Miami with his family, and that comfort has played a key role in the decision-making process. The environment, combined with the ambition of the club, is creating the perfect setting for the Argentine legend to stay.
One question remains: will this contract renewal also mean one last appearance at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, set to be hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada? While Messi has previously cast doubt on his participation, Mas hinted that the desire to compete is still alive: “He wants to win everything with the club, but he also wants to play the World Cup. He’s a competitive beast.”
The final call belongs to Messi. But as things stand, the stars are aligning for the No.10 to have his last dance—close to home, in the country where his post-football legacy is already taking shape.
