Archive · 1 Jul 2025
Messi Eyes Departure From Inter Miami Before 2026 FIFA World Cup
Lionel Messi, who plays for Inter Miami, might leave the team soon.
His contract ends in December, and he might go play in another league before the next big soccer tournament, the FIFA World Cup in 2026.
He is thinking about a temporary loan.
Some teams he could join are FC Barcelona, where he used to play, or Newell’s Old Boys, his team from when he was a kid.
Messi is getting older and will be 39 when the World Cup happens.
Lionel Messi's contract with Inter Miami expires in December.
Messi may leave MLS before the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
He is considering a short-term loan deal.
Possible destinations include FC Barcelona and Newell’s Old Boys.
Messi recently turned 38 and will be older for the 2026 World Cup.
- Who
- Lionel Messi.
- What
- Lionel Messi may leave Inter Miami.
- When
- Before the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
- Where
- MLS
- Why
- To compete in a more competitive league and prepare for the FIFA World Cup.
Staying in MLS
Leaving MLS
Competitive Level
Staying in MLS
Staying in MLS is good for financial reasons.
Leaving MLS
Moving to a more competitive league better prepares Messi for the 2026 World Cup.
- Player
- Lionel Messi
- Current Team
- Inter Miami
- Contract Expiry
- December
- Possible Moves
- FC Barcelona, Newell’s Old Boys
- Age
- 38
Sources
Shocking! Lionel Messi Appears To 'Punch' Paris Saint-Germain Star Vitinha During Club World Cup Match; Video
Zlatan Ibrahimovic Stands Up for Lionel Messi After PSG Thrashing In FIFA Club World Cup: 'He Didn’t lose, Inter Miami Did'
Ibrahimovic slams Messi's teammates, critics after Club World Cup exit, trolling from Ronaldo fans: 'Messi plays with statues'