Lionel Messi Set to Extend Inter Miami Contract Ahead of World Cup 2026

Lionel Messi Set to Extend Inter Miami Contract Ahead of World Cup 2026

  • A major news about Lionel Messi has dropped from Inter Miami as La Pulga is set to make a big decision on his future
  • Messi continues his MLS brilliance, scoring 20 goals and providing 12 assists in just 21 matches this season
  • Lionel Messi's contract extension details have emerged, keeping his World Cup ambitions alive while delighting US fans

Lionel Messi is set to continue his American adventure, with reports confirming that the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner has agreed to extend his contract with Inter Miami beyond 2026.

According to sources, only minor details remain to be finalised, signalling the conclusion of nearly two years of stellar performances in Major League Soccer.

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Lionel Messi is expected to extend his Inter Miami contract ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, a thrilling news for MLS fans. Image credit: David Jensen
Source: Getty Images

The extension comes as Messi continues to dazzle in 2025, having already netted 20 goals and provided 12 assists in just 21 appearances for Inter Miami.

According to AFP, as cited by RMC Sport, Messi, who joined Inter Miami in 2023, will therefore remain in Florida beyond the expiry of his current deal next December, giving fans more time to savour his magic on US soil.

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According to ESPN, discussions between the superstar and the MLS club are in their final stages, with an official announcement expected within the next fortnight.

Messi ready for 2026 World Cup and beyond

At 38, Messi’s contract extension ensures he remains match-fit ahead of the 2026 World Cup, scheduled across Canada, the United States, and Mexico from 11 June to 19 July.

The Argentine icon had hinted at the possibility of extending his stay in the US following a World Cup qualifier against Venezuela in September, reflecting on the importance of preseason preparation and maintaining form for the tournament.

On the pitch, the Inter Miami icon has continued to shine, pushing Inter Miami towards the upper reaches of the MLS Eastern Conference, where the team currently sits sixth.

The Argentine star remains a contender for the MLS MVP award, following his 2024 triumph, and has played a pivotal role in Inter Miami’s historic first appearance in the Concacaf Champions League semifinals.

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The campaign also featured a challenging 4-0 loss to PSG in the Club World Cup round of 16, highlighting the club’s growing ambitions on the global stage.

With Lionel Messi set to stay in Florida, Inter Miami supporters can look forward to more thrilling moments, while the football world keeps a keen eye on the Argentine legend as he prepares for another World Cup run.

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Lionel Messi #10 of Inter Miami during the MLS match against Seattle Sounders FC at Chase Stadium on September 16, 2025 in Fort Lauderdale. Image credit: Leonardo Fernandez
Source: Getty Images

Fans celebrate messi staying with Inter Miami

Meanwhile, supporters of Inter Miami and football fans worldwide have flooded social media with excitement and admiration following news that Lionel Messi will extend his stay in Florida.

Reactions range from pure jubilation to anticipation of more magical moments on the pitch, as fans eagerly await the eight-time Ballon d’Or legend’s continued exploits in Major League Soccer.

@Messcurvic said:

''Finalissima 2026, World Cup 2026, Copa America 2028, Let's fkingggg gooo.''

@Froshkaycee commented:

''1000 goals. Copa 2028, World Cup 2026, Be there!"

@Paralex99 reacted:

''He ain't resting soon. Ronaldo will need new peds to last more years for his goal record.''

@AndyCule also said:

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''That means ronaldo will renew up to 2030 cause he knows if he retires before Messi his record of most goals is in danger.''

Messi among Europe’s Top Five League winners

In an earlier feature, YEN.com.gh highlighted the footballers who have conquered Europe’s top five leagues, showcasing legends like Lionel Messi, Thomas Müller, and other elite stars.

The feature celebrated their remarkable consistency and dominance across Europe’s biggest competitions.

Source: YEN.com.gh

Authors:
Gariba Raubil avatar

Gariba Raubil (Sports Editor) Gariba Raubil is a skilled content writer and journalist with over 14 years of experience in sports journalism. He is a CAF and FIFA-accredited reporter and has been a member of the International Sports Press Association (AIPS) since 2020. He has covered several international tournaments including two All Africa Games in 2015 and 2023. He also reported on the 2017 CAF Africa Cup of Nations in Gabon and the 2018 Women’s AFCON. Email: gariba.raubil@yen.com.gh