JUST IN: Inter Miami is negotiating a contract extension with Lionel Messi.

admin | July 6, 2025 | Inter Miami | No Comments

Lionel Messi made it clear in the summer of 2024 that Inter Miami would be the final team he played for during his storied career. The Herons are now trying to prolong Messi’s time on the field because his contract is about to expire at the end of the MLS season.

According to a Friday ESPN story, Messi and Inter Miami are still negotiating to extend the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner’s contract past 2025.

In July 2023, Messi agreed to a 2 1/2-year Designated-Player contract with Miami. Inter Miami wants Messi to attend the housewarming celebration as the team prepares to unveil Miami Freedom Park, a new stadium, for the 2026 campaign.

Jorge Mas, co-owner of Inter Miami, told ESPN in June that his club would do whatever it takes to keep Messi with the Herons.

“I previously said that my wish, my dream would be for the No. 10 to inaugurate our new stadium in March. This is a decision that rests on Messi,” Mas said.

He added: “I always said that he is a competitive animal, he wants to win. I hope we can raise many trophies together here at Inter Miami in the coming years. Here, we’re just waiting to be able to give the fans the good news about Lionel Messi.”

Since joining the club, Messi led Inter Miami to its first-ever trophies, including the 2023 Leagues Cup and the 2024 Supporters’ Shield while setting a record for most points in a single season.

Miami also advanced to the round of 16 of the current FIFA Club World Cup, after taking second in Group A, but fell to Paris Saint-Germain in the knockout stage.

In 38 regular-season MLS games, Messi has 31 goals and 22 assists. He also claimed the 2024 league MVP.