The dream of Lionel Messi who donates the Blaugrana shirt one last time seems to slip away. Although speculation had increased in recent months about a possible return to Barcelona or even a sentimental final chapter on Newell’s Old Boys, A significant update from South Florida suggests that Messi’s journey may not continue in Europe but stuck on American soil. His time with Inter Miami may only enter a new chapter – a tied to nostalgia, but to ambition.
Since Messi arrived at MLS in July 2023 he is redefined Inter Miami’s course. What was once a new franchise has now become a heartbeat for MLS, a brand with global resonance. With 42 goals and 21 assists in just 48 performancesMessi has not only lifted trophies that 2023 League cup and 2024 Supporters shieldBut also the club’s expectations.
And while The hard -captured MLS cup remains Just out of reach, the club is not in the mood to meet the brakes. Argentine is currently leading them on another campaign, after recently helping Turn out LAFC in Concacaf Champions Cup quarterfinals. Now Miami is second in the eastern conference and is only three wins from potentially sealing of continental glory.
Halfway through the 2025 mls season, The veil has been lifted on Messi’s contractual futureAnd that is not the return to Barcelona that many had expected. Instead, AthleticDavid Ornstein reports that Messi is expected to sign a contract extension with Inter Miamia trait that would anchor him to the club far into the era of Miami Freedom Park—A new 25,000 locations stadium opening 2026.
“Messi and Inter Miami did not come to a new agreement before the start of the 2025 MLS season, but they are now close to dyeing a new deal,” Writes Ornstein. The current contract, which will originally expire at the end of 2025, is now expected to be extended either until December 2026 or possibly beyond, depending on the Stadium Line.
MAS: ‘The stars are custom’
Inter Miami’s co -owner, Jorge Mas, offered narrative insights this week in an interview with FDP Radio Miami. “The stars are in line with something big, for a beautiful future for the club and for Lionel. It is only his decision,” Said MAS.
“I expect that within 60-90 days we have to decide all this. My hope has always been – and all we do – is to see Messi play at our new stadium 2026. Hopefully it will happen.”
The consequences of such a business are monumental – not only for Inter Miami, but for MLS at large. Messi remains the top feature of the leagueboth on and off the field. His record-breaking performance-Fastest to 40 target contributions in MLS history, Inter Miami leaders all the time in goal mixesand a 2024 MVP campaign with 20 goals and 16 assists—For underline its ongoing value.
How about the former Barca quartet?
But Messi is not alone in his MLS renaissance. The future to Jordi Alba Are also questioned, as all four former Barcelona icons will be in contracts at the end of 2025.
Suarez, with 21 goals in 33 matchesHas been the perfect partner up. Busquets continues to anchor the midfield, and Alba’s understanding with Messi has given up 11 assists in 41 matches. While they have defied age and expectations, Miami must now weigh the future carefully: Should they double the experience or plan for a generation shift?
