This season has provided more questions than answers regarding what his future will hold, whether he remains in the MLS, takes time off, or heads back to Europe in hopes of finding better competition.
Inter Miami planned on securing their superstar earlier in the season as they want Messi to be around next year when they open up their brand new stadium that has been in development since before Messi arrived in Miami-Dade County.
The most interesting questions that remain in the Lionel Messi chronicles in the MLS are where he could end up if he leaves Miami, and if this is the last year, will his time in Miami be considered a disappointment?
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Is Messi’s Run with Miami a Disappointment
Messi has collected some hardware for his team and himself so far in the MLS, including a Leagues Cup, Supporters’ Shield, and earned himself an MLS MVP award. He is currently on pace to win the MVP for the second straight season.
Messi as an individual has been incredible and has made Miami a big market in terms of shirt sales and attendance across the MLS. Messi is bound to have a few incredible moments each game in MLS play, as every fan from every team wants to witness it.
Miami has had a hard time building around him this year; they have stretched the rules with how many international players they have and how many DPs they have on the roster.
With four DPs are already on the roster has made fans upset, their moves at the transfer window have made fans even more upset as they somehow got a top talent from Athletico Madrid for almost free.
Despite bringing in other aging stars for Europe, it has done very little to give Miami the edge over the rest of the East.
If Miami does not win the MLS Cup this season after last season’s disappointing playoff campaign, Messi’s time in the MLS will be considered underwhelming. With a contract sitting out in front of Messi, it is up to him if his journey in America will continue.
Where could he leave Miami for
Messi will have a record-breaking deal from Saudi Arabia sitting in front of him that would be enticing for any athlete. Messi already expressed no desire to play in the Middle East or contend with Cristiano Ronaldo for dimes and pennies.
If Messi leaves Miami after this season, it is to go back to Europe to play at a high level or to take a break and rest up for the World Cup next Summer in America.
Messi going back to Barcelona could be a reality, but it feels like it may not be the best option for him when looking at where the club is and where he is in his career. Joining Barca would be fun for fans to see him guide the young superstars at his former club and guide them forward into stardom.
Top clubs from across Europe will stretch out their wallets even if it means just a year of Messi, if Miami loses him the sweepstakes for the almost 40-year-old will be like no other.
Main Photo
Credit IMAGO / Icon Sportswire
Recording Date 29.07.2025