Lionel Messi has signed a new contract with Inter Miami, a three-year deal that will keep him with the Major League Soccer club until 2028. The announcement was made on Thursday, just a day before Inter Miami’s playoff opener against Nashville. Messi’s team, the No. 3 seed in the Eastern Conference, will host Game 1 of the best-of-three series on Friday night.
The contract extension ensures that Messi, widely regarded as the sport’s biggest icon, will be part of Inter Miami’s planned move into a new stadium next year. The team announced the move on social media, posting a photo of Messi signing the contract inside the new stadium, which is currently under construction. “HE’S HOME,” the team tweeted.
Messi expressed his happiness about staying with the club, stating that he has been very happy since arriving in Miami and is glad to continue with the project. The 38-year-old Argentine player has had a remarkable season, achieving multiple goals in five consecutive games and setting a league record with 10 multigoal games.
Inter Miami managing owner Jorge Mas welcomed the contract extension, saying that it represents the club’s commitment to building an iconic team that reflects the passion and dedication of the city. Mas added that Messi’s signing is an ode to the city of Miami.
The contract extension is likely to be Messi’s last as a professional player, given his age and his long career at the top level. He has spent over half his life playing professionally, making his debut with Barcelona as a 17-year-old in 2004. Messi led Argentina to the World Cup title in 2022 and will aim to defend the trophy next June and July in the US, Mexico, and Canada.
The contract extension is a significant boost to Inter Miami, which has seen a massive rise in global popularity since Messi joined the team in 2023. His presence has also contributed to the team’s first trophy, the 2023 Leagues Cup, and has added to his massive off-field business empire. Inter Miami co-owner David Beckham praised Messi’s commitment to the club and the city, saying that he still wants to win and is as committed as ever.
The contract extension is expected to have a positive impact on ticket sales at the new stadium, which is set to open next year. With Messi on board, Inter Miami is poised to continue its success and build on its growing popularity. The team’s playoff opener against Nashville on Friday night is expected to be a highly anticipated match, with Messi’s presence likely to draw a large crowd.