Lionel Messi is in the final stretch of his contract with Inter Miami, and his future is once again a topic of debate. What will the Argentine star do once his bond with the American club ends?
With the 2026 World Cup on the horizon, the captain of the Albiceleste wants to be in top form. These are the five alternatives he is considering for the last stage of his career.
1. The Most Likely Option
Messi has found in Miami the perfect balance between sports and personal life. He is surrounded by friends and former teammates, like Luis Suárez, Sergio Busquets, and Jordi Alba. Moreover, the MLS offers him less demanding competition than in Europe, allowing him to better manage his physical condition.
Inter Miami doesn't want to let him go and has already expressed their desire to renew his contract until the 2026 World Cup, which will be played in the United States. Messi's presence is key for the league's image and growth.
Additionally, in 2025, the club will play in the Club World Cup, allowing Messi to compete against the best teams in Europe again. If he achieves a prominent role in the tournament, his candidacy for the Ballon d'Or could be strengthened.
2. The Dreamed Return
Every transfer market, Barça fans dream of Messi's return to Camp Nou. With the new stadium inaugurated in 2026, a symbolic return of the best player in the club's history would be the perfect closure to a golden era.
His arrival wouldn't pose an economic problem for Barça, as he would be a free agent. However, on more than one occasion, Messi has ruled out this option. Two years ago, he could have returned to the club when he left PSG, but he decided to go to Miami.
Another sentimental alternative would be Newell's Old Boys, the club where he began his career. Returning to Argentina would allow him to retire in front of his people and with the jersey he always dreamed of defending in the First Division.
3. The Exotic Option
Arab soccer has managed to attract figures like Cristiano Ronaldo, Neymar, and Benzema with million-dollar contracts. The possibility of Messi reuniting with Cristiano in Saudi Arabia would generate unprecedented media impact.
Additionally, leagues like the Japanese one have also been farewell destinations for soccer legends like Iniesta or Xavi. The experience in a country with a different soccer culture could be an attractive challenge for Messi before his retirement.
However, the Argentine has shown that he prioritizes his quality of life and his preparation for the World Cup, something the MLS guarantees him more than other competitions.
4. The Most Surprising Option
An unconventional alternative would be for Messi to decide to take a six-month break before the World Cup, without signing with any team.
This would allow him to prepare physically without the wear and tear of competition. However, the lack of game rhythm could affect his performance, and Argentina might not count on him if he is not active.
It's a risky option, but it can't be completely ruled out.
5. The Final Goodbye
Although it seems unlikely, Messi could decide to retire after the 2025 Club World Cup. If he achieves a great role with Inter Miami, he might consider it the ideal time to say goodbye.
However, his desire to play one last World Cup with Argentina makes this option the least likely. Scaloni has already made it clear that Messi wants to be in the 2026 World Cup, and it would be hard to imagine an Argentine team without its captain.
At 37 years old in 2025, Lionel Messi will still be the center of attention in world soccer. His options range from staying in Miami, returning to Europe, trying an exotic league, or even retiring.
Time will tell what his choice will be, but the only sure thing is that the soccer world will be watching every step the Flea takes.