Lionel Messi’s 2026 World Cup plan grows clearer as contract update emerges

Lionel Messi appears set to extend his contract with Inter Miami, a move that could well see him play at the next World Cup.

Speculation had been rife that Messi might end his American adventure and return to Argentina when his current deal runs out. However, Argentinian news source TyC Sports reports that Messi is prepared to commit to the David Beckham co-owned club beyond the end of his current contract in 2025.

Messi, who transferred to the MLS from PSG in July 2023, has been instrumental in transforming Miami’s fortunes. His contributions helped the team clinch the Supporters’ Shield this season, amassing a record-breaking 74 points in the Eastern Conference.

Miami were unexpectedly knocked out of the play-offs by Atlanta United, however. Despite this disappointing conclusion to the season, it’s reported that Messi is nearing an agreement on a new contract that would see him stay until after the World Cup, due to start in North America in June 2026, with the US, Canada and Mexico jointly hosting the tournament, reports the Mirror.

The extension rumours have now sparked speculation that the 37-year-old legend could make an appearance in his sixth World Cup. The Argentinian publication posted on X: “Leo Messi has a contract with Inter Miami until December 2025. There is a willingness to renew it until after the 2026 World Cup. It has not yet been resolved but it is on track to be done.”

Despite being an elder member of the national team, Messi continues to play a crucial role in the side and has helped Argentina reach the top of the World Cup qualifying standings. Many had anticipated the former Barcelona star would return to Argentina soon, but it seems he is more than content living in America.

Mario Kempes, Messi’s fellow countryman and national team legend, stated that the Miami star is thriving in Florida. Speaking to TNT Sports, Kempes said: “Messi is three times happier playing in Inter Miami than at Barcelona, he is doing things very well. He doesn’t have to be focused for the whole ninety minutes. He plays when he wants to.”

Andres Iniesta, Messi’s former team-mate and Barcelona legend, also insisted Messi has found a new lease of life in the US. Speaking to ESPN, Iniesta said: “I would say he has found an environment where he feels comfortable, where he feels at ease. He is in a project that excites him, a project with an ambition to grow and he is surrounded by great players.”

Miami stormed into the postseason as the top seed, thanks to a stellar performance in the regular standings aided by Messi. However, it was Atlanta, who finished ninth in the Eastern Conference and a staggering 34 points behind Miami, that abruptly ended Messi’s dream of hoisting aloft the MLS Cup.

Despite Miami’s failure to clinch the cup, Messi still managed to net an impressive 21 goals in just 22 league appearances, seemingly securing his status as a club legend already.