Lionel Messi has the future of Inter Miami, Major League Soccer, and every club hoping to lure the Argentine captain hanging in the balance. Yet, according to The New York Times, a decision has already been made—and they’ve also explained why it hasn’t been officially confirmed.
In a report published Thursday through its sports arm, The Athletic, the prestigious American outlet claims that a source close to Messi has confirmed he will remain with Inter Miami, just as they had first reported back in April.
The article, written by journalist Felipe Cárdenas, states: “It’s true that Messi’s contract in Miami expires at the end of 2025 and he hasn’t signed a renewal yet. Still, he’s expected to extend his time in MLS at least through 2026. The Athletic reported this in April, and a source close to the player reaffirmed it in recent days.”
The piece goes on to suggest that Messi is playing his cards to gain leverage with his current club rather than genuinely considering a departure:
“This is basic negotiation strategy,” the article reads.
As for the much-discussed possibility of returning to Argentina and joining Newell’s Old Boys, the publication describes that scenario as highly unlikely.
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“Why would Messi leave the comfort he enjoys in Florida for a mid-table club that hasn’t won a trophy since 2013?” the article asks rhetorically.
“It may be hard for Argentines—and especially Newell’s fans—to hear, but for now, Messi’s loyalty remains with the club that wears pink,” The Athletic concludes.
Inter Miami and Messi moving toward contract extension
The report further details that, according to the anonymous source, both Messi and Inter Miami are aligned on a contract renewal, though it’s unclear when the deal will be signed.
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The source also emphasized Messi’s commitment to the project: “He fully understands the objectives, motivations, and challenges of being in Miami,” adding that, “Inter Miami is a young club, a new project he wants to help build and contribute to.”
