Last Updated:
Lionel Messi’s current contract with Inter Miami ends later this year in December.
Lionel Messi currently plies his trade for MLS club Inter Miami. (AP Photo)
Inter Miami star Lionel Messi could reunite with FC Barcelona due to a special clause in his ‘potential’ contract extension. Messi has broken several records since arriving in Major League Soccer (MLS) in 2023. The eight-time Ballon d’Or is seemingly happy in Miami and hopes to extend his current deal for another year. Amid the ongoing speculations around his contract, a MARCA report via Football Espana has claimed that the Herons are working on a special deal. This contract reportedly includes a clause covering the off-season period in the USA, from the end of 2025 to the opening months of 2026, with the option of a Europe return.
Lionel Messi’s current contract with Inter Miami ends later this year in December. Both parties are now hoping to reach an agreement for another 12 months to mirror the structure of a regular MLS season. The new contract would allow Messi to compete in the 2026 World Cup in the USA and wrap up a full season in Miami. The main idea is to help Messi remain in optimum physical shape. A return to Barcelona could also be an option if both clubs agree on a loan deal.
Barcelona had to let go of Lionel Messi after the 2020/21 season due to financial troubles. While it has been over three years since fans have seen the Argentine in a Barcelona shirt, the reported contract extension could be the last chance for Messi’s return to Spain.
Lionel Messi is currently preparing for another preseason tour with Inter Miami. The upcoming tour will be a five-match trip that will see The Herons playing in four countries ahead of the 2025 MLS season. Inter Miami President of Football Operations Raul Sanllehi recently expressed excitement for the preseason games. “We’re very excited to unveil the five matches against domestic and international opponents across the Americas that will prepare us for a highly anticipated 2025,” he said, as per multiple outlets. Highlighting the competitions Inter Miami are set to play this year, Sanllehi added, “These fixtures will put us in the best possible position ahead of an unparalleled campaign with various competitions we’re playing for this year — the FIFA Club World Cup, CONCACAF Champions Cup, Leagues Cup and MLS.”
Inter Miami qualified for the FIFA Club World Cup 2025 last year, winning the MLS Supporters Shield with Lionel Messi. They will now have their eyes set on winning their first MLS Cup in the club’s history next season.