AFCON 2025
Lionel Messi appears set to continue his journey with Inter Miami, as early discussions regarding a contract extension are underway.
The Argentine superstar, whose current deal with the Major League Soccer (MLS) club runs through the end of 2025, is reportedly keen to remain in South Florida beyond that period.
According to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, both Messi and Inter Miami are aligned in their desire to extend the partnership.
Sources close to the negotiations revealed that the parties have started preliminary steps toward a new agreement.
“Leo is under contract until the end of 2025. The reality is that both parties are interested in continuing the relationship,” a source told Romano. “The necessary steps are being taken with the right mindset to make it happen.”
Messi, an eight-time Ballon d’Or winner and 2022 FIFA World Cup champion, joined Inter Miami in July 2023. Since his arrival, the club has experienced a remarkable transformation.
He led the team to its first-ever major trophy by clinching the 2023 Leagues Cup and followed that up with the 2024 Supporters’ Shield. Despite dealing with injuries during the 2024 season, the 36-year-old registered 21 goals and 11 assists, underscoring his dominance in MLS.
Most recently, Inter Miami made headlines at the FIFA Club World Cup by becoming the first MLS side to defeat a European club in the competition, with a historic 2–1 win over FC Porto.
However, the momentum stalled as the team suffered a 4–0 loss to Paris Saint-Germain, the reigning European champions, in their following match.
Sources close to Messi’s camp have emphasized that family stability in Miami remains a key factor in the decision-making process.
Optimism reportedly surrounds the ongoing talks, with all parties recognizing the significance of Messi’s presence, not only for Inter Miami but for MLS as a whole. His impact has greatly enhanced the league’s global profile and commercial appeal.
While nothing has been finalized, the shared ambition between Messi and Inter Miami points to a continued relationship that could further reshape the landscape of football in North America.
