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Antoine Griezmann has his future increasingly set outside Europe. According to Fabrizio Romano, the French forward has reached a verbal agreement with Orlando City SC to join the club in July 2026, once his contract with Atletico Madrid ends, becoming part of <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/mls">MLS</a>, where Lionel Messi remains a central figure with <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/inter-miami">Inter Miami</a>, setting up the possibility of another meeting between the two.



The rivalry between Lionel Messi and Antoine Griezmann has been one of the most consistent over the past decade, with a total of 34 head-to-head matchups across clubs and international play. They frequently faced each other in La Liga, with Messi at Barcelona and Griezmann representing Atletico Madrid and Real Sociedad, as well as in matches between Argentina and France.



At club level, the two players have faced each other in 31 official matches, primarily in Spanish competitions such as La Liga, the Copa del Rey, and the Supercopa, as well as in the UEFA Champions League. At the international level, they have faced each other three times.



<h2>Club matchups</h2>



During those matchups, <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/lionel-messi">Lionel Messi</a> has held a clear edge, recording 19 wins compared to five for Antoine Griezmann, along with seven draws. In terms of scoring efficiency, Messi has been particularly dominant, netting 26 goals against teams featuring the French forward, Real Sociedad and Atletico Madrid, while Griezmann has scored six goals in those direct matchups against Barcelona.



<figure class="wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped">
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" data-id="600360" src="https://media.bolavip.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/03/18113217/Antoine-Griezmann-1-1920x1080.webp" alt="Antoine Griezmann of Atletico Madrid" class="wp-image-600360"><figcaption>Antoine Griezmann of Atletico Madrid during the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 Round of 16 First Leg match.</figcaption></figure>
</figure>



<h2>International matchups</h2>


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At the international level, the story has been different, though equally significant overall. The record stands at one win for each side and one draw, which ended in the historic penalty shootout in 2022. In terms of goals in these matchups, Lionel Messi leads with two goals, both in the 2022 final, while Antoine Griezmann has one goal, scored in the Round of 16 at the 2018 World Cup.


 

 


These were results that made history. In 2018, France went on to be crowned champions, and arguably their toughest opponent was Argentina in the Round of 16, where <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/antoine-griezmann">Antoine Griezmann</a> scored a penalty that opened the scoring in the victory.



In contrast, Argentina responded in the 2022 World Cup final in Qatar, where Lionel Messi scored twice, one from the penalty spot to open the scoring and another in extra time to give them the lead. Griezmann was substituted in the first half of that match, where Kylian Mbappe emerged as the standout performer with a hat trick that forced a penalty shootout, where they ultimately became world champions.



<h2>What to expect in MLS</h2>



As mentioned, Antoine Griezmann is expected to arrive in MLS with <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/orlando-city">Orlando City SC</a>, where he will likely face Lionel Messi again. It will not be just another match; it will represent the Florida derby between Orlando City SC and Inter Miami, one of the most important fixtures for both teams, making it a matchup worth following when it takes place.

Griezmann Reaches Verbal Agreement with Orlando City, Sets Up Potential MLS Matchups with Messi

Griezmann to compete against Messi in MLS with Orlando City: How many times have they faced each other?

Lionel Messi extends lead over Cristiano Ronaldo in 2026 with free-kick goal for Inter Miami vs NYCFC

Video: Lionel Messi scores free kick goal for Inter Miami vs NYCFC at Yankee Stadium

Griezmann to compete against Messi in MLS with Orlando City: How many times have they faced each other? - Bolavip US

Griezmann to compete against Messi: How many times have they faced each other?

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<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/lionel-messi">Lionel Messi</a> hit the post twice, but he ultimately found the net for <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/soccer/nycfc-vs-inter-miami-live-lionel-messi-returns-to-mls-action-after-concacaf-champions-cup-exit">Inter Miami against New York City FC</a> in the second half on Sunday.



Shortly after the hosts put themselves in front at Yankee Stadium, the Argentine star fired home a long-range free kick, with a bit of help as the shot was deflected by an opponent.



This is Messi’s fourth goal in as many games in the 2026 MLS season, in his return to league action after missing the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/soccer/charlotte-fc-vs-inter-miami-live-lionel-messi-in-pursuit-of-reaching-900-career-goals">goalless draw against Charlotte FC</a> on Matchday 4.



<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<div class="ck-twitter"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true">Messi takes advantage of the deflection for his fourth goal. <a href="https://t.co/GcypiH2Xgs">pic.twitter.com/GcypiH2Xgs</a>— Major League Soccer (@MLS) <a href="https://twitter.com/MLS/status/2035787276177772964?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 22, 2026</a></blockquote></div><script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
</div></figure>



<h2>Messi extends scoring count after reaching 1,000 career goals</h2>



The free-kick goal in New York comes only a few days after <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/soccer/lionel-messi-reaches-900-career-goals-how-long-did-it-take-cristiano-ronaldo">Messi reached 1,000 in his career</a>, with the former Barcelona star achieving the milestone during Inter Miami’s Concacaf Champions Cup exit.



<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/soccer/video-lionel-messi-scores-900th-career-goal-during-inter-miamis-concacaf-champions-cup-clash-vs-nashville">Messi scored his 1,000th career goal</a> early against Nashville SC, though it wasn’t enough for Inter Miami as Cristian Espinoza’s equalizer proved the difference for the visitors due to the away goals rule.


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<h2>Messi gets closer to free-kick goals record</h2>



Still, <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/soccer/nashville-hc-calls-messi-the-best-as-inter-miami-star-reaches-900-career-goals-despite-elimination">Nashville SC head coach B.J. Callaghan labeled Messi as ‘the best’</a> after the game. Only a few days later, the Argentine delivered another goal to continue chasing yet another record in his illustrious career.



With his equalizer at Yankee Stadium, <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/soccer/messi-reaches-70-free-kick-goals-in-his-career-how-many-does-cristiano-ronaldo-have-and-who-holds-the-record">Messi reached 71 career free-kick goals</a>. He’s now only seven shy of the all-time record, held by Marcelino Carioca with 78.

Video: Lionel Messi scores free kick goal for Inter Miami vs NYCFC at Yankee Stadium - Bolavip US

<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/inter-miami">Inter Miami</a> completed an incredible MLS comeback against New York City FC, winning 3-2 with <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/soccer/video-lionel-messi-scores-free-kick-goal-for-inter-miami-vs-nycfc-at-yankee-stadium">Lionel Messi playing a key role in their turnaround, including a free-kick goal</a>. The Herons started strong but struggled to convert chances, while NYCFC struck first through Agustin Ojeda.



The second half saw Inter Miami respond quickly, with <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/lionel-messi">Messi</a>’s creativity and Micael’s decisive header helping the team take the lead and complete the comeback. NYCFC had opportunities to equalize, but St. Clair and Miami’s defense held firm.



Both sides battled intensely in midfield, with tactical changes from Mascherano and NYCFC keeping the match dynamic. Ultimately, Inter Miami’s persistence and clinical finishing made the difference in this thrilling MLS encounter.

Inter Miami complete 3-2 comeback vs NYCFC in MLS, including a Lionel Messi free-kick goal

Inter Miami complete 3-2 comeback vs NYCFC in MLS, including a Lionel Messi free-kick goal - Bolavip US

Messi's free-kick goal leads Inter Miami's 3-2 comeback vs NYCFC

<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/new-york-city-fc">New York City FC</a> and Inter Miami face each other in what will be a&nbsp;2026&nbsp;<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/mls">MLS</a>&nbsp;regular season game. With excitement building, make sure to note the match date, kickoff time, and streaming options available in the USA to watch the game live. Follow <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/soccer/nycfc-vs-inter-miami-live-lionel-messi-returns-to-mls-action-after-concacaf-champions-cup-exit">NYCFC vs Inter Miami live</a> with us and don’t miss a single thing!



<a href="https://tv.apple.com/channel/tvs.sbd.7000?itsct=play_mls&amp;itscg=30200&amp;at=1000lS8e" rel="sponsored nofollow">[Watch NYCFC vs Inter Miami live in the USA on Apple TV]</a>



With first place in the Eastern Conference on the line, <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/inter-miami">Inter Miami</a> head into this clash looking to regain momentum after a frustrating <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/soccer/charlotte-fc-vs-inter-miami-live-lionel-messi-in-pursuit-of-reaching-900-career-goals">scoreless draw against Charlotte</a>. The Florida team, still reeling from its recent Champions Cup exit, is eager to get back on track behind <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/lionel-messi">Lionel Messi</a> and company.



However, New York City present a tough challenge. Sitting on 10 points, NYCFC know a victory would push them to 13 and potentially vault them into the top spot, setting the stage for a pivotal showdown with major implications in the early-season standings.



<h2>When will the NYCFC vs Inter Miami match be played?</h2>



NYCFC play against Inter Miami this&nbsp;Sunday, March 22, in a&nbsp;2026&nbsp;MLS&nbsp;regular season game, with kickoff scheduled for&nbsp;1:00 PM (ET).



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://media.bolavip.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/03/21201330/Talles-Magno-1920x1080.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-602561"><figcaption>Talles Magno of New York City FC – Dustin Satloff/Getty Images</figcaption></figure>



<h2><a href="https://bolavip.com/en/soccer/cristiano-ronaldos-key-partner-in-portugal-bernardo-silva-could-join-lionel-messi-at-inter-miami"></a>NYCFC vs Inter Miami: Time by State in the USA</h2>



ET: 1:00 PM CT: 12:00 PM MT: 11:00 PM PT: 10:00 PM



<h2>How to watch NYCFC vs Inter Miami in the USA</h2>



Tune&nbsp;<a href="https://tv.apple.com/channel/tvs.sbd.7000?itsct=play_mls&amp;itscg=30200&amp;at=1000lS8e" rel="sponsored nofollow">Apple TV</a>&nbsp;to catch the&nbsp;2026&nbsp;MLS&nbsp;regular season showdown between&nbsp;NYCFC and Inter Miami live in the USA.

Where to watch NYCFC vs Inter Miami live in the USA: 2026 MLS

Where to watch NYCFC vs Inter Miami live in the USA: 2026 MLS - Bolavip US

<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/james-rodriguez" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">James Rodriguez</a> could make his MLS debut today as he starts on the bench for Minnesota United against the Vancouver Whitecaps on Matchday 4.



<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/minnesota-united" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Minnesota United</a> are in 11th place of the Western Conference right now. They have just four points in three games. However, a win could put them as high as sixth if other results help their case. It’s an important game altogether for them, so having Rodriguez available is great news.



The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/vancouver-whitecaps" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Vancouver Whitecaps</a> are third winning all three games so far. In fact, they have scored eight goals and just allowed one. Hence, it’s a good defense and a top offense. Minnesota has struggled scoring just four goals while allowing five.



<h2>The Whitecaps have a star too</h2>



At 36 years old, World Cup champion Thomas Muller is still a game-changer in the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/mls" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">MLS</a>. Muller will start for the Whitecaps, and with him on the field, danger is always there. Muller’s high IQ allow him to still be a factor despite losing physicality. Also, he was never the fastest player, but he’s always been one of the smartest. 



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://media.bolavip.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/03/10195901/Thomas-Muller-1920x1080.webp" alt="Thomas Müller of the Vancouver Whitecaps" class="wp-image-595640"><figcaption>Thomas Müller of the Vancouver Whitecaps</figcaption></figure>



The Whitecaps will still not count on captain Ryan Gauld, who continues to recover from an arthroscopic debridement on his left knee. He is expected to make a full, healthy return by April. Still, the Whitecaps are a very powerful team even if Gauld doesn’t play.


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<h2>James vs Muller is an incredible duel for hardcore fans</h2>



Both guys had their primes between 2013 and 2018, but both have kept what made them elite players back in the day: their brain and educated feet. James always exceled at making unseen plays thanks to his creativity and magical left foot.



<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/thomas-muller" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Muller</a>‘s biggest strengths have always been his mentality, game IQ, and killer instinct. Those features still remain. Both the Whitecaps and United know their chances of success come from relying on their stars.

Is James Rodriguez playing today in Vancouver for Minnesota United vs Whitecaps on 2026 MLS Matchday 4?

Is James Rodriguez playing today in Vancouver for Minnesota United vs Whitecaps on 2026 MLS Matchday 4? - Bolavip US

Is James playing today for Minnesota United vs Whitecaps?

Inter Miami face Charlotte FC at Bank of America Stadium for 2026 MLS Matchday 4, eyeing their third consecutive league victory. According to ESPN, <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/lionel-messi">Lionel Messi</a> will rest tonight as the coaching staff aim to have him fully fit for Concacaf Champions Cup clash against Nashville SC.



As a result, the Argentine will have to wait one more match to continue making history. When he scores his next official goal, Messi will reach 900 career goals, joining Cristiano Ronaldo as the only players in professional soccer history to hit that milestone.



While <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/inter-miami">Inter Miami</a> are focused on securing three points in Charlotte, they must also keep an eye on the return leg against Nashville, set for Wednesday, March 18, at Chase Stadium. In addition to Messi’s absence, Rodrigo De Paul is also expected to be rested tonight to ensure he is fully fit for the return leg.



Following the 0–0 stalemate in the opener, Nashville hold a slight strategic advantage due to the away goals rule; a scored draw in the second leg would see the visitors advance.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://media.bolavip.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/03/14173641/inter-nashville-messi-1920x1080.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-598150"><figcaption>Messi during the Concacaf Champions Cup clash vs Nashville. (Getty Images)</figcaption></figure>



<h2>Confirmed Inter Miami lineup</h2>



For this match, Javier Mascherano will be able to count on Sergio Reguilon, who has recovered from the ankle injury he sustained during the preseason and was already on the bench during the draw in the Concacaf Champions League. However, Maximiliano Falcon suffered a knee injury and will be out for several matches.


 <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" id="BUS#/soccer/javier-mascherano-says-luis-suarez-is-ready-to-play-as-lionel-messi-inter-miami-head-to-charlotte"></div>


This is the confirmed starting XI to face Charlotte FC: Rios Novo; Ian Fray, Lujan, Melli, Noah Allen, Sergio Reguilon; Mateo Silvetti, David Ruiz, David Ayala, Santiago Morales; Daniel Pinter, Luis Suarez.

Lionel Messi Expected to Start for Inter Miami vs. Charlotte FC as Pursuit of 900th Career Goal Continues

Why is Lionel Messi not playing for Inter Miami vs Charlotte FC at Bank of America Stadium on 2026 MLS Matchday 4?

Why is Lionel Messi not playing for Inter Miami vs Charlotte FC at Bank of America Stadium on 2026 MLS Matchday 4? - Bolavip US

<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/inter-miami">Inter Miami</a> drew 0-0 against Charlotte FC in an MLS clash at Bank of America Stadium, with <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/lionel-messi">Lionel Messi</a> not participating in the match as he was rested by head coach Javier Mascherano. Both sides created dangerous moments throughout the game, but strong defensive performances and key saves from Kristijan Kahlina and Rios Novo kept the score level.



Inter Miami controlled long stretches of possession and produced several of the clearest chances of the night. Luis Suarez, David Ruiz and German Berterame all came close to opening the scoring, while <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/charlotte-fc">Charlotte FC</a> responded through Liel Abada and Wilfried Zaha in a fast-paced and physical contest.



With the draw, Inter Miami earn a valuable point on the road in <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/mls">MLS</a> despite rotating the squad. The Herons now shift their focus to Wednesday’s Concacaf Champions Cup clash against Nashville, where they will look to advance in the competition.

Inter Miami secure valuable MLS point with 0-0 draw vs Charlotte FC as Lionel Messi rests

Inter Miami secure valuable MLS point with 0-0 draw vs Charlotte FC as Lionel Messi rests - Bolavip US

<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/charlotte-fc">Charlotte</a> take on Inter Miami in what will be a&nbsp;2026&nbsp;<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/mls">MLS</a>&nbsp;regular season game. With excitement building, make sure to note the match date, kickoff time, and streaming options available in the USA to watch the game live.



<a href="https://tv.apple.com/channel/tvs.sbd.7000?itsct=play_mls&amp;itscg=30200&amp;at=1000lS8e" rel="sponsored nofollow">[Watch Charlotte vs Inter Miami live in the USA on Apple TV]</a>



After opening the MLS 2026 season with a loss, <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/inter-miami">Inter Miami</a> responded with back-to-back victories to move within one point of Eastern Conference leaders New York City FC and Nashville SC.



Led by <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/lionel-messi">Lionel Messi</a>, Miami now looks to keep building momentum against Charlotte FC, which enters the matchup still searching for consistency after recording one win, one draw, and one loss to start the campaign.



<h2>When will the Charlotte vs Inter Miami match be played?</h2>



Charlotte receive Inter Miami this&nbsp;Saturday, March 14, in a&nbsp;2026&nbsp;MLS&nbsp;regular season game, with kickoff scheduled for&nbsp;7:30 PM (ET).



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://media.bolavip.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/03/13223013/Tyler-Miller-of-the-Charlotte-FC-1920x1080.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-597775"><figcaption>Tyler Miller of the Charlotte FC – Luiza Moraes/Getty Images</figcaption></figure>


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<h2>Charlotte vs Inter Miami: Time by State in the USA</h2>



ET: 7:30 PM CT: 6:30 PM MT: 5:30 PM PT: 4:30 PM



<h2>How to watch Charlotte vs Inter Miami in the USA</h2>



Tune&nbsp;<a href="https://tv.apple.com/channel/tvs.sbd.7000?itsct=play_mls&amp;itscg=30200&amp;at=1000lS8e" rel="sponsored nofollow">Apple TV</a>&nbsp;to catch the&nbsp;2026&nbsp;MLS&nbsp;regular season showdown between&nbsp;Charlotte and Inter Miami live in the USA.

Where to watch Charlotte vs Inter Miami live in the USA: 2026 MLS

Where to watch Charlotte vs Inter Miami live in the USA: 2026 MLS - Bolavip US

More than two years after <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/lionel-messi">Lionel Messi</a> arrived at <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/inter-miami">Inter Miami</a>, the financial structure of his deal with MLS continues to spark curiosity, as only a fraction of the total comes directly from the league’s salary structure.



Jorge Mas, managing owner of the club, confirmed that Messi’s total annual earnings range between $70 million and $80 million. Yet <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/mls">the</a> official payroll tells only part of the story behind how that number is actually built.



Behind the headlines lies a contract designed very differently from a traditional salary deal. Partnerships, revenue sharing and <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/mls">MLS</a>-backed incentives all play a role in shaping the real value of his agreement in Miami.



<h2>Messi’s earnings: How much comes from MLS salary?</h2>



Oonly a relatively small portion of Lionel Messi’s reported $70 million–$80 million annual earnings comes directly from his MLS contract. According to the MLS Players Association salary guide, his base salary with Inter Miami CF is about $12 million per year.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://media.bolavip.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/03/09122718/Lionel-Messi-2-1-1920x1080.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-594655"><figcaption>Lionel Messi #10 of Inter Miami reacts during an MLS match in 2026 (Source: Dustin Markland/Getty Images)</figcaption></figure>



But that figure is significantly lower than the $70–80 million often cited by club co‑owner Jorge Mas. He told Bloomberg that Messi’s total compensation — “across everything” — reaches that range, thanks to elements beyond his MLS salary.



The gap between the Argentine superstar’s official MLS salary and his total earnings reflects several additional revenue streams and contractual features:



<ul><li>Equity in Inter Miami: He has a clause granting him a percentage ownership stake in the club that will activate once he retires. As Inter Miami’s valuation has climbed from roughly $585 million before his arrival to about $1.35 billion, that equity component itself accounts for a large share of the $70m–$80m estimate.</li></ul>



<ul><li>Revenue sharing and partnerships: Some of his income comes from revenue‑sharing agreements tied to the league’s broadcast deal with Apple and global sponsorships (including with brands like Adidas), which are structured to benefit the superstar beyond his playing contract.</li></ul>



Put another way: Messi’s MLS salary is roughly $20.4 million per year, but the total compensation figure Mas quoted includes equity value and commercial revenue streams that go well beyond that core salary number.



In a league with a relatively modest salary structure overall, that distinction helps explain why his deal is so distinct, both in headline value and in how it was engineered to reflect his global appeal and business impact.

Lionel Messi’s Inter Miami Earnings: How Much Comes Directly from MLS Salary

How much of Messi’s $70M-$80M per year is only due to MLS salary?

How much of Messi's $70M-$80M per year is only due to MLS salary? - Bolavip US

The impact of <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/lionel-messi">Lionel Messi</a> on Inter Miami has been measured in sold-out stadiums, global attention and record commercial growth. Yet behind the headlines about goals and trophies, the financial structure of his contract continues to attract just as much curiosity.



He remains the highest-paid player in <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/mls">MLS</a>, earning a reported $12 million base salary and more than $20 million in guaranteed compensation. But the Argentine star’s deal was never built solely around salary, as his total annual earnings reach between $70 million and $80 million, according to Jorge Mas.



Still, the most intriguing element of the agreement may not appear on any salary guide. Buried within the structure of the deal is a clause that could give him something few players ever receive during their careers: a stake in the club he currently represents.



<h2>The ownership clause built into Messi’s Inter Miami deal</h2>



When Lionel Messi joined Inter Miami in 2023, his agreement reportedly included a provision granting him percentage ownership in the club once he retires from professional <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/soccer">soccer</a>, according to The Athletic.



The franchise is currently controlled by ownership figures including Jorge Mas, Jose Mas and former England star <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/david-beckham">David Beckham</a>, but the clause opens the door for Messi to eventually join that group.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://media.bolavip.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/03/09114224/lionel-messi-3-1920x1080.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-594605"><figcaption>Lionel Messi of Inter Miami looks on during a MLS match in 2026 (Source: Patrick Smith/Getty Images)</figcaption></figure>



Details about the exact size of his potential stake have never been publicly confirmed by the club or the league. However, executives connected to the organization have suggested the value tied to that ownership structure could reach at least $60 million per year, depending on how Messi’s contract and extension are structured through the end of the 2028–29 season.



The clause means his time in MLS could ultimately deliver value far beyond his playing salary. Instead of simply earning wages during his stay in Miami, the Argentine icon could transition into a long-term stakeholder within the club.



<h2>Why Inter Miami’s valuation makes the clause so valuable</h2>



The financial context surrounding Inter Miami helps explain why the ownership element of Messi’s contract is considered so significant. Before the Argentine arrived in South Florida, the franchise was valued at roughly $585 million in 2023.



Since then, the club’s global visibility and commercial reach have expanded dramatically. Recent estimates from Forbes place Inter Miami’s valuation at approximately $1.35 billion, reflecting the surge in sponsorships, merchandise sales and international exposure following his arrival.



That dramatic rise in value means any ownership percentage tied to Messi’s contract could become increasingly lucrative over time. In practical terms, the clause positions him to potentially remain part of Inter Miami’s long-term business future.

Lionel Messi’s Inter Miami contract includes potential ownership stake in MLS club

The hidden MLS ownership clause that makes Messi’s Inter Miami contract priceless

The hidden MLS ownership clause that makes Messi’s Inter Miami contract priceless - Bolavip US

<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/mls">MLS</a> continues to attract more star players, and part of that growth is linked to the Lionel Messi effect with <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/inter-miami">Inter Miami</a>. One of the recent rumors involved the possible arrival of Antoine Griezmann, although for now, a move to MLS does not appear imminent. Because of that, the potential matchup that once generated so much discussion in Spain and international competitions will have to wait.



The 34-year-old French star had been linked with a possible move to Orlando City. However, according to Atletico Madrid sporting director Mateu Alemany, Griezmann will remain with the club for this season and for two additional years.



“Antoine Griezmann is in an extraordinary moment of form and considering that he is a legend and the level he is showing, he will be applauded as always. He is with us and he will continue with us,” Alemany said before Griezmann provided an assist in Atletico Madrid’s 3-2 victory against Real Sociedad in La Liga. Still, according to Fabrizio Romano, Orlando City remain in conversations for a possible free transfer in July, focusing on the summer window.



Griezmann, 34, is the all-time leading scorer in the history of Atletico Madrid. He helped France win the 2018 World Cup before retiring from international soccer in 2024. His career also includes memorable moments against <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/lionel-messi">Lionel Messi</a>, especially in the 2018 World Cup when France defeated Argentina in the quarterfinals and in 2022 when Argentina defeated France in the final.



<figure class="wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped">
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" data-id="585643" src="https://media.bolavip.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/02/23185045/griezmann-1920x1080.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-585643"><figcaption>Antoine Griezmann of Atletico Madrid.</figcaption></figure>
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<h2>Griezmann’s current situation</h2>



This season, he has lost some of his leading role under coach Diego Simeone, as the manager has been managing his minutes carefully. Even so, <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/antoine-griezmann">Griezmann</a> has scored 12 goals in all competitions during the current campaign.


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Atletico Madrid will face Real Sociedad in the Copa del Rey final on April 18. <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/atletico-madrid">Atletico Madrid</a> also sit third in La Liga and will face Tottenham in the round of 16 of the Champions League next week, a crucial moment in the season where the team will certainly need the French forward.



<h2>Simeone still wants Griezmann</h2>



After the 3-2 victory against Real Sociedad, Diego Simeone addressed the situation regarding Antoine Griezmann’s future, although he emphasized that he hopes the forward continues giving everything he can to the club.



“These things are always better when the player speaks directly and explains what he truly wants to say. We always want the best for him, first as a person and for his family, because I care about him a lot, and he will decide when the time comes to say something,” Simeone said during the postgame press conference. “Griezmann is different. When he is playing well, he is a very important player for us, and hopefully he continues giving everything he wants to this team.”

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