Lionel Messi secures control over Inter Miami.
Lionel Messi on the Verge of Extending Stay at Inter Miami
After a successful half-year stint with Inter Miami, Lionel Messi is on the brink of signing a contract extension that would keep him at the club until the end of 2028. According to reports from Spanish sports newspaper Marca, the proposed deal includes flexible clauses allowing either party to end the contract early in 2026 or 2027, depending on Messi's circumstances.
The extension reflects Messi's desire to continue playing into his early 40s and help Inter Miami win more titles while also preparing for the 2026 World Cup. Beyond his playing career, Messi is already a part-owner of Inter Miami, and plans are in place for him to remain involved with the club in a non-playing role after retirement.
Inter Miami's new stadium, Miami Freedom Park, is set to open next year, and the club hopes Messi will play a central role in its inaugural season. The club, owned by co-owner David Beckham, is in the Major League Soccer in the USA.
Messi's extension coincides with the arrival of more Argentine players at Inter Miami. Rodrigo de Paul, a compatriot of Messi, has recently been signed by the club. Javier Mascherano, the coach of Inter Miami, is a long-time national team colleague of Messi.
The participation of Messi in the title defense with the Argentine team next year is uncertain. However, it is more likely to assume that Messi will continue to play for Inter Miami, considering the club's efforts to create a comfortable atmosphere for him. Messi's current contract with Inter Miami is valid until the end of 2023.
The new contract could extend beyond three years if Messi wishes. The report about the contract offer from Spanish sports newspaper Marca and the possibility of an offer beyond three years still stand. Messi's potential role in the club after his active career is yet to be determined, but it could involve administrative, ambassadorial, or other leadership functions within the club—potentially overlapping with or following his on-field contributions.
Amane, a recent addition to Rapid, is also part of the Inter Miami squad. The club is gearing up for an exciting future, both on and off the pitch, with Messi at the helm.
Messi's career at Inter Miami may extend beyond soccer, as he is already a part-owner and plans to remain involved with the club after retirement. Despite the uncertainty surrounding his participation with the Argentine team, Messi is more likely to continue playing for Inter Miami due to the club's efforts to create a comfortable atmosphere for him. Additionally, Messi's new contract could potentially involve administrative, ambassadorial, or other leadership roles within the club, beyond his on-field contributions.
