Exclusive: Inter Miami Confident of Extending Lionel Messi’s Stay Beyond 2025
Club and player aligned on future vision as negotiations quietly progress
Inter Miami are quietly confident of extending Lionel Messi’s stay beyond the expiration of his current contract, which runs until the end of 2025, club sources have revealed exclusively.
The Major League Soccer (MLS) franchise has made no secret of the transformative impact Messi has had—both on the pitch and in global brand visibility—since his landmark arrival in 2023. With the World Cup-winning forward now in the twilight of his career, speculation has naturally begun to surface regarding his next steps. However, those close to the club insist that there is a strong mutual desire to continue the journey.
“Leo is under contract until the end of 2025,” a senior Inter Miami source confirmed. “The reality is that both parties are interested in continuing the relationship.”
While Messi’s arrival was always seen as a major coup for MLS and a defining moment for Inter Miami’s identity, what followed exceeded expectations. From sell-out crowds to a sharp uptick in international viewership, Messi’s presence has reshaped the perception of soccer in the United States. He brought silverware with him too—helping Inter Miami to win their first Leagues Cup and elevating the team’s performance across domestic competitions.
As talks over a potential contract extension begin to take shape, Inter Miami are treading carefully but optimistically. “The necessary steps are being taken with the right mindset to make it happen,” the source added, indicating that while negotiations remain in the early phases, both sides are approaching the discussions with shared respect and long-term ambition.
It is understood that Messi himself remains settled in South Florida, with his family enjoying life away from the intense spotlight of European football. Sources suggest that lifestyle, legacy, and continued growth of the sport in the United States are all factors that weigh positively on his mind. Importantly, Messi’s relationship with co-owner David Beckham and head coach Tata Martino also remains strong—offering stability and a sense of purpose that the Argentine icon values.
From a commercial standpoint, Inter Miami are keenly aware of Messi’s enduring marketability. Any contract extension would likely include not just playing incentives but strategic roles off the pitch—whether through ambassadorial responsibilities, involvement in academy development, or part-ownership discussions, similar to what Beckham himself negotiated in his playing days.
While some European clubs and Saudi sides have reportedly kept an eye on Messi’s situation, the clear signals from Inter Miami suggest the club is confident in retaining its talisman.
As the 2025 season unfolds, all eyes will be on how Messi leads the team and whether this next chapter can be secured before the current contract winds down. For now, both club and player are aligned—and that’s the strongest sign yet that Messi’s American dream is far from over.
