Inter Miami have hit a rough patch recently, winning just one of their last four matches since being eliminated in the Concacaf Champions Cup semifinals by Vancouver Whitecaps. Amid the team’s struggles, fans are growing concerned about Lionel Messi’s future, with his contract set to expire at the end of the season. However, David Beckham is optimistic about keeping the Argentine legend in Miami.
Following a disappointing 3-0 loss to Orlando City, Messi was asked about any updates regarding his contract extension. His response left some fans uneasy: “No, I don’t know anything”.
In contrast, Beckham expressed confidence about Messi’s future during an interview with Time Magazine, emphasizing the star’s happiness in Miami. “I think his heart is in Miami now,” Beckham said.
Beckham believes that as long as Messi is happy with soccer, he will keep playing for as long as he wants. “Players these days, they look after themselves more. They’re playing longer. His No. 1 passion is obviously his family. His other passion is soccer,” Beckham explained. “As long as he’s happy, he will continue to play as long as he wants. It would be nice if he played another 10 years. I can’t see it. But you never know”.
Co-owner David Beckham hugs Lionel Messi #10 of Inter Miami after defeating Nashville SC in penalty shootout to win the Leagues Cup 2023 final. (Tim Nwachukwu/Getty Images)
Beckham reflects on signing Messi
The former Real Madrid star admitted that as a team owner, you always dream of having the world’s best players, but it rarely happens. Beckham never imagined Messi would join Inter Miami, calling him the greatest player in the sport’s history.
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“I could never have dreamed to have Lionel here,” Beckham confessed. “As an owner, you always say that you want the best players. Does it really happen? No. And he is the best player to have ever played the game”.
What’s next for Messi and Inter Miami?
Inter Miami currently sits sixth in the standings with 22 points, grappling with inconsistencies on the field. Following their 3-0 loss to Orlando City, a 4-1 defeat against Minnesota United further highlighted the team’s challenges heading into the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup.
Messi and company have three MLS matches left before their international campaign begins. Next up is a match against Philadelphia Union on Saturday, May 24, followed by games against CF Montreal and Columbus Crew.
On the global stage, Inter Miami is in Group A of the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup, alongside Porto, Palmeiras, and Al–Ahly. Their first game is scheduled for Saturday, June 14, against Al-Ahly.
