Football icon Lionel Messi has officially agreed to a contract extension with Inter Miami, committing his future to the Major League Soccer (MLS) club until 2028. This significant development, announced by the Florida-based team on October 23, is poised to further elevate the competitive stature and global profile of American soccer’s top league.
The eight-time Ballon d’Or winner, who will be 38 when this new deal takes effect, has unequivocally signaled his continued dedication to professional football, dismissing any immediate thoughts of retirement. While speculation has linked his career’s end to around the 2028 mark, Messi has consistently affirmed that age does not deter him from pursuing his passion on the pitch.
Crucially, this extended tenure in the United States is seen as a strategic move for Messi. It allows him to maintain peak form and competitive sharpness as he prepares for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The prestigious tournament is set to be co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, making his continued presence in MLS an ideal platform for international readiness with the Argentine national team.
David Beckham, the former England midfield maestro and current co-owner of Inter Miami, underscored Messi’s ambition. “Our vision was always to bring the best football players to Inter Miami and to this city. We have achieved what we wanted,” Beckham stated. He added, “Messi remains as committed as he always has been, and he wants to win trophies here with us.” This collective drive to succeed was a key factor in Messi’s decision to continue playing for the club based in the coastal city of Miami.
While the specific financial terms of the agreement with the Argentine superstar were not disclosed by Inter Miami, Messi’s presence has already had a transformative impact on the club’s valuation. According to Forbes magazine, Inter Miami’s market value has more than doubled since his arrival, now estimated at approximately $1.2 billion. This surge places them as the second most valuable team in Major League Soccer, a testament to the influence of the former Barcelona player.
On the pitch, Messi’s contributions have been immense. This season alone, the Argentine captain has been directly involved in 29 goals for Inter Miami. His pivotal role has helped the team secure a third-place finish in the MLS Eastern Conference standings, thereby earning a spot in the upcoming playoffs. Beyond the club’s immediate success, Messi’s arrival has dramatically heightened global interest in MLS, drawing unprecedented attention to the league from football enthusiasts worldwide.
