Lionel Messi’s future remains a topic of speculation as Inter Miami, Major League Soccer, and global suitors await clarity ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. But according to The New York Times, through its sports vertical The Athletic, the Argentine star has already made his decision—and it won’t come as good news for fans hoping to see him return to South America.
In a report published Thursday by journalist Felipe Cárdenas, The Athletic cites an anonymous source close to Messi who confirms that the 36-year-old is expected to remain with Inter Miami at least through the 2026 season. The update reinforces reporting from April that first indicated Messi’s intent to stay in MLS.
“Messi’s contract in Miami is set to expire at the end of 2025 and he has yet to sign an extension,” the article states. “Still, it’s expected that he’ll continue with MLS through 2026.” The report adds that Messi’s delay in signing a renewal is viewed as “a basic negotiation tactic” rather than a signal of serious intent to leave. While a return to Argentina—particularly to boyhood club Newell’s Old Boys—has long been romanticized by fans, The Athletic calls that scenario “highly unlikely.”
“Why would Messi leave the comfort he enjoys in Florida for a mid-table club that hasn’t won a trophy since 2013?” the outlet asks. “It may hurt Argentine fans, especially those of Newell’s, but for now, Messi’s loyalty remains with the club that wears pink.”
Lionel Messi #10 of Inter Miami CF reacts following 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.
Inter Miami and Messi on track for extension
The report goes on to note that Inter Miami and Messi are aligned in their intentions to extend the partnership, though there is no clear timeline for when the new deal will be finalized.
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Report: Lionel Messi considers leaving Inter Miami, MLS six months before the 2026 FIFA World Cup
A source close to the situation told The Athletic that Messi understands “exactly what the objectives, motivations, and challenges of being in Miami are,” and emphasized that “Inter Miami is a young club and a new project that he wants to help build.”
Since joining Inter Miami in August 2023, Messi has made 63 appearances, tallying 50 goals and 24 assists across all competitions. His highlight moments include a stunning free-kick goal against Porto at the FIFA Club World Cup, a Leagues Cup title, and a Supporters’ Shield, awarded for finishing first in the MLS regular season.
All signs now point toward Messi continuing to lead Inter Miami—and MLS—through what could be the final chapter of his legendary career, as he gears up for one last World Cup run in 2026.
