What is Messi Likely to do Next? Inter Miami Future, World Cup 2026, or Retirement?
Atlanta, June 30, 2025 –
Lionel Messi’s journey at the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup ended in heartbreak as Inter Miami suffered a 4-0 defeat to Paris Saint-Germain in the round of 16. Despite flashes of brilliance from the Argentine icon, including a near-miss free-kick and a saved header, Messi failed to find the net in what may have been his final major international club tournament appearance.
Yet, as Messi walked off the pitch at Atlanta’s Mercedes-Benz Stadium, applause ringing in his ears, the questions off it only grew louder: What’s next for the legendary No.10?
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Messi’s contract with Inter Miami runs until the end of 2025. While he has yet to confirm an extension, club co-owner Jorge Mas remains hopeful:
“My dream is for Messi to inaugurate our new stadium in March 2026,” Mas told ESPN, adding, “We’re just waiting to give fans the good news.”
Messi, who earns an MLS-record $20.4 million in 2025, will next feature in Inter Miami’s league clash against Montreal on Sunday, although it’s unclear if coach Javier Mascherano will rest him.
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A Barcelona return, long seen as improbable, is once again being whispered. With the Catalan club expected to settle a $7 million debt owed to Messi, reports suggest they could attempt a reunion after his Miami contract ends.
While Messi admitted earlier that he couldn’t see himself at another European club, he also said:
“My goal was to return home… unfortunately, that wasn’t possible.”
Though Argentina have qualified for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, co-hosted by the US, Canada, and Mexico, Messi hasn’t officially committed. Coach Lionel Scaloni emphasized patience:
“Let’s not drive him crazy… he’ll decide when he’s ready.”
Teammates like Rodrigo De Paul and Julian Alvarez remain eager to see their captain back in blue and white for one last dance.
Despite previous links to the Saudi Pro League, Messi appears settled in Florida. Analysts believe proximity to Argentina and the World Cup’s U.S. hosting make a move to Saudi Arabia unlikely.
As for retirement, Messi offered a subtle hint:
“I’m conscious that I’m playing my final matches… I’m sure you’re watching my final moments in football’s elite,” he said earlier in the tournament.
For now, Messi continues with Inter Miami, the world watches, and the legend lives on.
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