Published on Jul 01, 2025
Lionel Messi could be set to leave Inter Miami temporarily in late 2025 as he weighs his next move ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The Argentine legend, currently under contract with the MLS club through December 2025, is reportedly considering a short-term loan or return to Argentina to maintain top-level fitness for what may be his final World Cup.
Messi's time in Major League Soccer has been both commercially and competitively successful, but with the 2026 tournament on North American soil, the football icon is thinking ahead. Reports suggest he is exploring options to play in a more competitive environment in the final six months before the World Cup either in Europe or with his boyhood club, Newell’s Old Boys.
While no official announcement has been made, sources close to Messi indicate he is assessing a potential short-term move away from Inter Miami to prepare for the World Cup. His current contract includes an option to extend through 2026, and both the club and the player are said to be in talks over that extension.
However, Messi is also keenly aware of the physical and tactical demands of international football. After Miami’s 4–0 loss to PSG in the 2025 Club World Cup, speculation intensified that Messi could seek a temporary challenge in a more intense league.
There’s growing talk of a short loan spell in the Premier League. Clubs could be interested in signing Messi for the first half of the 2025–26 season to boost both performance and brand value.
A sentimental return to Newell’s Old Boys—where Messi played as a child—could also be on the cards. This move would allow him to reconnect with his roots while preparing for the World Cup in familiar surroundings.
Messi may also consider a final short-term stint in Europe, where he spent the majority of his career. La Liga, Serie A, or even a Champions League-qualified team could be an option.
Despite the speculation, Inter Miami co-owner Jorge Mas has expressed confidence in retaining Messi, even mentioning plans for the superstar to help open the new Miami Freedom Park stadium in 2026. “We’re just waiting to give fans the good news,” Mas recently said regarding the contract extension.
Inter Miami remains committed to building around Messi, but the idea of a short loan has not been publicly ruled out—especially if it aligns with Messi’s desire to be fully match-fit before June 2026.
Messi is expected to lead Argentina once again at the 2026 World Cup, which will be hosted in the United States, Mexico, and Canada. With Argentina seeking to defend their 2022 title, the decision about where he plays in the months leading up to the tournament could be crucial.
For now, Messi remains with Inter Miami, but the next few months could determine whether he finishes his club career in MLS—or seeks one final challenge elsewhere before taking the global stage once again.
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