It has been a bittersweet season for Lionel Messi at Inter Miami. The Argentine played a crucial role in helping his club win the MLS Supporters' Shield, by setting up a new record of earning 74 points in a season. After such an impactful outing, expectations are bound to be high. But Inter Miami couldn't capitalise on the momentum, losing to Atlanta 3-2 in the MLS Cup. The early disqualification means fans won't be able to witness more of the Messi magic.
If rumours are anything to go by, Messi might trigger an early release from Miami, where contract ends at the end of 2025. He can also renew his contract by a year. The Argentine forward has already expressed his desire to play in the upcoming FIFA World Cup, so he's unlikely to retire from football till then.
Will Lionel Messi Stay At Inter Miami?
It's hard to predict if Lionel Messi will stay at Miami and see his contract through. The Inter Miami coach Gerardo Martino lacked conviction when he was asked about the striker's future. Martino didn't shy away from stating that he is not sure about Mess’s availability.
"I actually don't know how limited [Messi's time in this league] is," he was quoted as saying. "There is a question of time passing, but I would not dare to say that it is so short. If you look at the context in which this began, it seems to me that the progress of the club is important.," he added.
Messi, however, posted a heartwarming message to the club's fans, vowing to return stronger next season. "A season ended in which we continued to grow as a club and, although we achieved some goals, we wanted more. Thanks to all the people who joined and supported us. Now let's get ready to come back stronger next year."
Will Lionel Messi End His Career At His Boyhood Club?
Lionel Messi's comments on Instagram indicate he might complete his contract tenure at Inter Miami, but he has given numerous hints about ending the dusk of his career in his native country Argentina. Messi has always desired to appear for his boyhood club Newell's Old Boys, where he remained from 1995 to 2000. "My dream is to play at Newell's but I don't know what will happen, and a part of that doubt is due to the way the country is at the moment. I have a family and my children come first, and then me," said Messi.
Is A European Comeback Possible for Lionel Messi?
After winning the World Cup with Argentina, Lionel Messi wanted to prioritise his family and play in a less strenuous league, which doesn't take a toll on his health and schedule. A return to Europe at an age where he's closer to retirement, and more importantly, after winning everything there was for him to win, seems a distant possibility.
