In the summer of 2024, Lionel Messi made it clear that Inter Miami would be his final club as he nears the end of his remarkable career. As his contract approaches its expiration at the conclusion of the MLS season, Inter Miami is working to prolong Messi’s time on the field. According to ESPN, negotiations are ongoing between Messi and Inter Miami to extend the contract of the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner beyond 2025. Messi originally joined Miami in July 2023 on a 2 1/2-year Designated Player contract. With the club preparing to unveil its new stadium, Miami Freedom Park, for the 2026 season, Inter Miami is eager for Messi to be part of the celebratory occasion. Jorge Mas, a co-owner of Inter Miami, expressed the club’s determination to retain Messi, stating that they are committed to keeping him with the team. Mas stated that his desire is for Messi to be present at the inauguration of the new stadium in March, emphasizing that the decision ultimately lies with Messi. He highlighted Messi’s competitive spirit and expressed hopes of achieving success and winning numerous trophies together in the years to come. Since Messi’s arrival, Inter Miami has secured its first trophies, including the 2023 Leagues Cup and the 2024 Supporters’ Shield, while also setting a record for the most points in a single season. Despite advancing to the round of 16 in the current FIFA Club World Cup after finishing second in Group A, Inter Miami was eliminated by Paris Saint-Germain in the knockout stage. In 38 regular-season MLS matches, Messi has scored 31 goals and provided 22 assists, earning the league MVP title in 2024.
