Reports: Messi Considers Leaving Inter Miami

Press reports have revealed a major surprise regarding the future of Argentine star Lionel Messi with his current club, Inter Miami, especially as his contract is set to expire in December, after he joined the team in the summer of 2023 on a free transfer following the end of his contract with Paris Saint-Germain.

According to ESPN Argentina, Messi is considering a new experience, possibly on loan for next season, in preparation for the 2026 World Cup, with the aim of maintaining his fitness and securing a second World Cup title with the Argentine national team.

The report indicated that Messi is exploring the option of temporarily playing in a more competitive league ahead of the 2026 World Cup, which will be held in Canada, Mexico, and the United States.

The report also noted that contract renewal talks between Messi and Inter Miami's management are currently on hold, in anticipation of a possible departure in the near future.

Despite Messi’s emotional and historic ties with Barcelona, a return to the club appears unlikely due to its ongoing financial struggles and tensions with club president Joan Laporta.

A return to his former club Paris Saint-Germain also seems distant, given the French team's current focus on building a young and energetic squad.

Meanwhile, Manchester City has shown interest in signing Messi, but the likelihood of that happening remains uncertain, despite the close relationship between the player and City manager Pep Guardiola.

Inter Miami was recently eliminated from the ongoing FIFA Club World Cup in the United States after a heavy 4-0 defeat to Paris Saint-Germain in the Round of 16.