Following Inter Miami’s elimination from the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup at the hands of Paris Saint-Germain, one thing became clear—Lionel Messi, the Argentine superstar, is still capable of competing at the highest level. Despite the result, Messi delivered memorable performances that reminded fans of his enduring brilliance. However, the lack of support from his teammates and the overall level of competition in Major League Soccer may be influencing his potential decision to seek a new challenge ahead of the next World Cup.
According to Argentine journalist Esteban Edul, Messi is considering a departure from MLS six months before the start of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. “Leo Messi and his family told me on Friday that he is considering playing somewhere else for the six months leading up to the World Cup,” Edul said. “At one point, he had his contract settled to stay on, but now that’s been put on hold.”
Messi’s individual brilliance was on full display during the Club World Cup, even as Inter Miami struggled collectively against stronger opposition. At 38, his vision, passing, and soccer IQ remain world-class, and his ability to change a match with a single play continues to set him apart. The loss to PSG underscored what many already believed—Messi can still thrive in a more demanding league.
Argentina, aiming to defend its 2022 World Cup crown, will need Messi in peak condition for what is likely to be his final major international tournament. A short-term stint in a more competitive environment—perhaps in Europe or with a top South American club—could help him maintain match sharpness and rhythm leading into 2026.
Lionel Messi #10 of Inter Miami CF looks on during the FIFA Club World Cup 2025 round of 16 match between Paris Saint-Germain and Inter Miami CF at Mercedes-Benz Stadium on June 29, 2025 in Atlanta, Georgia.
What’s next for Lionel Messi?
Following Inter Miami’s elimination, Lionel Messi delivered a standout performance throughout the FIFA Club World Cup. The Argentine star played a central role in keeping the MLS side alive, consistently generating dangerous opportunities in the final third and scoring a stunning free-kick that secured a dramatic win over FC Porto.
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Not seen on TV: Lionel Messi’s violent moment with Vitinha during Inter Miami’s loss to PSG at FIFA Club World Cup 2025
Expectations are now mounting around Messi’s next move. While a return to Europe seems unlikely, many believe he is eyeing a transition to a higher level of competition. One possibility that excites fans across the continent is a return to Latin America—most likely Argentina. A move back home would be monumental and symbolic, representing a full-circle moment for Messi and sparking immense national pride.
Messi breaks silence after Inter Miami elimination
After the loss to Paris Saint-Germain, Lionel Messi addressed fans directly with a message on social media. “Today the Club World Cup comes to an end for us with a defeat against the current Champions League champion, where there are people I appreciate and I was happy to see again,”
Messi wrote on Instagram. “We leave with the pride of having achieved our goal of getting into the top 16 of the tournament. Now we have to focus on the MLS and everything that is to come.” The post reflects both perspective and professionalism from Messi, who remains focused on what lies ahead—even as speculation around his short-term future continues to grow.
