Inter Miami source shares new insight into Lionel Messi’s future amidst exit links | OneFootball

A day after reports claimed Lionel Messi could leave Inter Miami for a tougher league before the 2026 FIFA Club World Cup, the MLS club has responded by making their stance clear.

Inter Miami have confirmed that the Barcelona legend has a contract with them until the end of 2025, and they plan to keep him even longer.

A source quoted by Fabrizio Romano explained, “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.”

What’s the story?

The rumours of Messi’s possible departure started when it was revealed that the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner might consider leaving the MLS six months before the 2026 World Cup.

The idea behind this move would be to join a more competitive league to stay sharp for the tournament, where he hopes to help Argentina defend their title after their triumph in Qatar in 2022.

Inter Miami wants to renew Messi’s contract. (Photo by Alex Grimm/Getty Images)

Messi’s current contract will make him a free agent when it ends in December 2025, just months before the next FIFA World Cup kicks off.

This timing has fueled talk of a possible move to Europe or elsewhere to prepare at the highest level.

Naturally, Barcelona have once again been mentioned as a potential destination, just like when Messi left PSG in 2023 and eventually joined Inter Miami.

However, Inter Miami are moving quickly to end these doubts. The club intends to renew Messi’s contract and keep him in Miami beyond 2025.

By securing his future, they hope to build their project around the Argentine star and keep the excitement of having one of the greatest players in football history.