Inter Miami, led by global icon Lionel Messi, is gearing up for the highly anticipated Club World Cup. With expectations rising, the MLS side is actively reinforcing its squad to remain competitive on the world stage. One major storyline involves the rumored pursuit of Real Madrid legend Luka Modric, who recently confirmed his departure from the Spanish giants.
Following an emotional farewell during Real Madrid’s match against Real Sociedad, Modric appeared to shut down immediate hopes of a move to Miami. His post-match comments made it clear that his final act with the club will be to compete in the Club World Cup—casting doubt on a potential switch before the tournament.
According to transfer insider Fabrizio Romano, Modric stated: “I will be there, that will be my last dance with Madrid… we’ll go to USA to win that trophy.” He also confirmed that incoming head coach Xabi Alonso will lead the team into the tournament. The statement appears to end Inter Miami’s short-term hopes of acquiring the Croatian midfielder.
What a send-off it would be—Modric, a Ballon d’Or winner and one of Real Madrid‘s all-time greats, bidding farewell by chasing one final international title. His potential swan song in the United States mirrors the emotional departure of fellow Madrid icon Toni Kroos, who last year bowed out with a vintage performance in the UEFA Champions League.
Modric could reunite with Ronaldo
Adding intrigue to the upcoming Club World Cup is the possibility of Luka Modric facing a former teammate. Cristiano Ronaldo’s potential involvement has generated headlines in recent days, sparking global speculation. With top clubs preparing to compete, the spotlight has shifted toward whether the Portuguese star will also feature.
FIFA president Gianni Infantino fueled the fire during a livestream appearance on American influencer IShowSpeed’s platform. When asked about the Club World Cup, Infantino teased Ronaldo’s participation. “And Ronaldo might play for one of the teams at the Club World Cup,” he said.
IShowSpeed, caught off guard, pressed for confirmation: “Wait, so Ronaldo might be in the Club World Cup?” Infantino didn’t flinch, reaffirming, “Yeah, Cristiano Ronaldo might play at a Club World Cup. These are discussions with some clubs.” He even issued a call to action: “If any club is watching and is interested in hiring Ronaldo… who knows? There’s still some time. It would be fun.”
The future of Messi at Inter?
As Miami plots its future, attention also turns to Lionel Messi’s contract situation. The team’s struggles in recent weeks—including an early exit from the Concacaf Champions Cup—have only intensified questions about the Argentine star’s long-term plans. His current deal expires at the end of the MLS season.
Inter Miami head coach Javier Mascherano addressed the topic in a press conference last Friday. “As for Leo’s renewal, I’m not the one who has to decide,” he explained. “There’s a sporting department that’s in charge of answering those questions,” Mascherano said, per AS USA Latino on X.
“As a coach, what I want is for him to renew as soon as possible, for the news to come out as soon as possible—mostly to give peace of mind to the fans and everyone around the club,” Mascherano added. “We hope to have good news in the short term. But I’m not the sporting director, and I’m not involved in the negotiations, so I have no idea.”