Lionel Messi’s arrival at Inter Miami in 2023 transformed Major League Soccer, but questions about his future are now surfacing.
Not long ago, I shared a story wondering whether Messi’s final chapter would unfold in Barcelona or with his boyhood club in Argentina, as leaked by a family friend.
It seems club owners have caught wind of this as well and now feel the need to address it.
Messi’s current contract with Inter Miami runs until 2025, with the option to extend for another year. Club co-owner Jorge Mas expressed confidence in keeping Messi long-term, saying, “When our new stadium opens in 2026, I fully expect Messi to still be our number 10.”
However, David Beckham, another co-owner of Inter Miami, has revealed a different perspective. Speaking at the Economic Forum in Davos, Beckham acknowledged Messi’s love for Barcelona.
“Messi told me he wants to live near Camp Nou after he retires,” Beckham said. “Barcelona is his home, and it’s clear how much it means to him. You can see it in the tattoos he has and even the crest on his water bottle.”
Messi’s bond with Barcelona is undeniable. The club gave him his start, and he spent over 20 years building his legacy there.
While he’s thriving in Miami now, his heart remains tied to Catalunya. Beckham himself admitted, “I would love for Messi to stay in Miami forever, but his connection to Barcelona is unmatched.”
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For now, though, Messi’s focus is on the present. After winning MVP honors in MLS last season, he’s determined to continue making an impact in the league.
Beckham praised Messi’s influence, saying, “He’s helping grow the game in the United States. Seeing him play for Inter Miami is a proud moment for us all.”
Inter Miami is gearing up for another competitive season, and fans are excited to see Messi continue his magic. While his eventual return to Barcelona seems likely, Messi has plenty left to achieve in Miami before that chapter begins.