Lionel Messi is poised to remain in Major League Soccer (MLS) beyond the 2026 FIFA World Cup, sources say, after reaching an agreement with Inter Miami to extend his contract. The deal, expected to be finalized in the coming weeks, could see the Argentine superstar conclude his illustrious career in the United States. An official announcement is anticipated before the end of September.
Messi, 38, joined Inter Miami in 2023 following a challenging period at Paris Saint-Germain, where he struggled to replicate the success that defined his 17-year tenure at Barcelona. At the Catalan club, he won ten La Liga titles and four UEFA Champions League trophies, cementing his status as one of football’s greatest players.
Since arriving in Miami, Messi has continued to capture headlines. In 2024, he was named MLS Most Valuable Player, even though Inter Miami exited the playoffs early. Earlier this year, he became the fastest player in league history to reach 40 goals, showcasing his enduring skill and goal-scoring prowess.
The timing of the contract extension aligns with Messi’s ambition to compete in the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which will be hosted across North America. Staying in MLS ensures he will remain in competitive form leading up to the tournament, giving Argentina a seasoned forward at the heart of their squad. Argentina’s national team manager recently commented that whatever Messi decides regarding his World Cup participation would be respected, highlighting the forward’s central role in the national setup.
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Messi has also shared poignant moments with his home fans in recent months. On September 5, he was visibly emotional as he appeared at Estadio Monumental, potentially marking his final appearance in front of Argentina’s supporters on home soil. The scene underscored the deep connection between the player and his national fan base, reflecting the gravity of his career decisions.
Inter Miami, which has grown in prominence since Messi’s arrival, stands to benefit from the extended association, both on and off the pitch. His presence has drawn global attention to MLS, elevating the league’s profile and inspiring a new generation of players and fans in North America.
With the 2026 World Cup on the horizon, Messi’s extended stay in Miami signals a continued blending of sporting ambition and personal legacy, ensuring that football enthusiasts worldwide will witness more chapters of his extraordinary career.