Lionel Messi, Inter Miami Finalizing Multi-Year Extension
Lionel Messi and Inter Miami are close to finalizing a multi-year contract extension with only minor details remaining, according to sources who spoke to ESPN.
The two parties have reached the final stages of negotiations, with the deal expected to be completed soon. Once agreed upon, the contract will require Major League Soccer approval before becoming official.
Current Deal Expires After 2025 Season
Messi signed his original 2.5-year contract with Inter Miami on July 15, 2023, running through the end of the 2025 campaign. The Argentina captain has transformed the franchise since his arrival in South Florida.
Despite previous reports linking the eight-time Ballon d\'Or winner to clubs in other leagues, both Miami and Messi have expressed mutual interest in continuing their partnership. Co-owner Jorge Mas previously stated the club would do everything possible to retain the superstar.
Record-Breaking Success Under Messi
Inter Miami has captured its first-ever trophies during Messi\'s tenure, including the inaugural 2023 Leagues Cup and the 2024 Supporters\' Shield. The club also set an MLS record for most points in a single season under his leadership.
Messi has contributed 28 goals and 14 assists in 36 appearances across all competitions in 2025. His impact spans MLS regular season, Leagues Cup, Concacaf Champions Cup, and Club World Cup matches.
Immediate Impact Since 2023 Arrival
The former Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain star delivered Miami\'s first major trophy just weeks after his July 2023 debut. His arrival sparked unprecedented interest in MLS and elevated the profile of soccer in South Florida.
Messi currently leads MLS in Whoscored rating with a mark of 8.27 as he\'s scored 20 goals to go with nine assists.
Messi\'s status for the World Cup in 2026 remains uncertain. Messi said earlier this month that \"the most logical thing is that I won\'t make it.\"