Inter Miami CF and Lionel Messi are currently in discussions regarding the extension of his contract, which is set to expire at the end of 2025.
Although there have been recent rumors linking Messi to other teams, both Inter Miami and the Argentine captain are keen to continue their partnership on the field. Messi joined Inter Miami in July 2023 on a designated player deal that spans two and a half years, concluding with the MLS season in 2025. Inter Miami’s co-owner, Jorge Mas, stated last month that the team will take the necessary steps to ensure Messi remains with them moving forward.
The club is also preparing to open a new stadium, Miami Freedom Park, ahead of the 2026 season. "I’ve expressed that my wish is for Messi to be here when we launch our new stadium in March. This decision ultimately rests with Messi, and I hope he will finish his career with us. A few months ago, I mentioned there would be updates in the summer, and if possible, I hope we can finalize that soon," Mas remarked.
“I’m optimistic since Leo has done everything he can to feel at home and comfortable here. He’s an incredibly competitive player who aims to win, and I look forward to celebrating many trophies together in the years ahead." Messi led Inter Miami to its first-ever trophy, winning the 2023 League Cup, and the team continued to achieve records in the 2024 Supporters Shield and for the most points in a season.
Following this success, the Supporters Shield exited the tournament after a 4-0 defeat against Paris Saint-Germain in the 2025 Club World Cup, where Inter Miami secured a spot in the knockout stage by finishing second in Group A. On an individual level, Messi Shined with 31 goals and 22 assists in 38 regular-season MLS games, earning the 2024 League MVP Award, as well as seven goals and two assists in nine matches during the 2024 and 2025 CONCACAF Champions Cup campaigns.
Inter Miami’s head coach, Javier Mascherano, emphasized that he hasn’t discussed Messi’s contract with the team, focusing on the upcoming games instead. "I’m not involved in those discussions," he told reporters. "We are concentrating on the Club World Cup and trying to perform well moving forward."
Inter Miami is set to return to play against CF Montreal in an MLS regular-season match on Saturday, marking their first game since their elimination from the Club World Cup.
Fan Take: This news is pivotal for soccer fans as Messi’s potential contract extension keeps one of the sport’s greatest players in MLS, enhancing the league’s profile. His presence could play a crucial role in attracting new fans and elevating soccer’s popularity in the U.S. as the sport heads toward the 2026 World Cup.
