When is Lionel Messi’s next game? Inter Miami star continues 2026 MLS season activity

Lionel Messi is still making history at 38 years old, remaining a cornerstone and captain for both Inter Miami and the Argentina national team. With the 2026 Major League Soccer season now underway, fans are wondering when they’ll see the forward back in action.

Lionel Messi’s next match with Inter Miami is scheduled for Sunday, September 27, when the Herons visit the Columbus Crew for the 2026 MLS. The Argentine star heads to the game after scoring his 101st goal with the club against San Diego FC.

Regarding his international schedule, Messi’s next appearance with Argentina will come during the upcoming autumn FIFA window, more specifically on October 6th against Benin. Having formally announced his pending international retirement, the fixture will mark the final chapter of a historic two-decade tenure with the Albiceleste.

During the World Cup, Messi featured in all eight matches for Argentina scoring eigth goals to cement his legacy as the second all-time top scorer in the torunament with 21 career World Cup goals. As for the 2026 MLS campaign, Messi has featured in 23 official matches so far across all competitions for Inter Miami, scoring 20 goals with 12 assist registered thus far.

Lionel Messi’s end of an era in Argentina

Messi signaled the conclusion of an era by confirming his approaching retirement from the Argentina national team, bringing an end to an international career that began in 2005. He delivered the announcement on September 1, nearly two months after Argentina’s World Cup final defeat to Spain, publishing an emotional letter across his personal channels.

“After taking time to reflect since the final, I want to let everyone know that I am retiring from the National Team,” Messi wrote. “It was a decision that hurt and still hurts to my core, but I understand that the time has come. I swear to you that I always gave my all—not just during these recent years when we won everything, but long before as well. I always fought and left everything on the pitch for this shirt, to bring you joy and make you proud to be Argentine through football.“

The legendary forward will make his official farewell appearance during the autumn international window, specifically in Argentina’s scheduled match against Benin on October 6. Hosted at Estadio Monumental, the largest venue in Latin America, AFA officials are organizing a nationwide send-off for the country’s greatest icon.