Lionel Messi has been at the center of conversation in recent days—not only due to Inter Miami‘s early exit from the FIFA Club World Cup 2025, but also because of swirling rumors about a potential departure. In response to growing speculation, the MLS club has reportedly addressed the situation.
Rumors began circulating Monday morning, when ESPN‘s Esteban Edul reported that Messi and his family were considering a six-month move elsewhere in the lead-up to the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The idea would be to stay sharp ahead of what is expected to be his international farewell.
According to Edul, Messi has an agreement in place to remain with Inter Miami through the 2026 World Cup. However, that arrangement is now reportedly on hold—not scrapped, but paused—adding a layer of uncertainty to his future in South Florida.
Inter Miami’s response
As the centerpiece of the club’s global growth, Inter Miami appear unwilling to entertain a Messi departure. Speaking to sources within the organization, journalist Fabrizio Romano shared insight into the club’s position on its superstar’s status.
“Leo is under contract until the end of 2025. The reality is that both parties are interested in continuing the relationship. The necessary steps are being taken with the right mindset to make it happen,” posted Romano on his social media channels.
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After teammate Jordi Alba extended his contract in May, many expected Messi to follow suit. Inter Miami coach Javier Mascherano even addressed the contract chatter during a press conference, offering clarity on his own role in the discussions:
“I’m not the one who should say. There’s a sporting department here that needs to answer that question. Obviously, as the coach, I hope he can renew as soon as possible, that the announcement can be made soon—especially for the peace of mind of the fans and everyone around the club.”
Messi’s long-stated goal is to remain fit and competitive heading into the 2026 World Cup with Argentina. One concern is the long layoff between the end of the 2024 MLS season and the start of 2025—three months without official matches between Argentina’s Nov. 19 game against Peru and Inter Miami’s Feb. 19 opener vs. Sporting Kansas City. That stretch has reportedly fueled talks of a temporary move abroad, making a short-term departure a plausible option.
