Inter Miami owner Jorge Mas has publicly contemplated the possibility of luring Lionel Messi to the club as far back as 2019. Speaking to a Spanish outlet, Mas described Miami as a rapidly growing, world-class city where people should associate the city with football greatness in the United States. He emphasized a broader plan to position Miami as a football powerhouse in North America, aiming to attract top talent and elevate the profile of the sport in the region.
Messi’s career path around that period included a high-profile move after his tenure with Paris Saint-Germain. In June, his contract with PSG concluded, and he transitioned to Inter Miami as a free agent. The move was anticipated to reshape the landscape of Major League Soccer, drawing attention to the league’s growth and its ability to attract globally recognized stars.
In November 2022, Messi achieved a historic triumph with the Argentina national team, securing the FIFA World Cup title after a dramatic final against France. The match, which extended beyond regular time, finished 3-3, with Argentina prevailing 4-2 in the ensuing penalty shootout. Messi played a pivotal role, scoring goals and converting penalties as part of Argentina’s championship journey. This achievement solidified Messi’s status as one of the sport’s most celebrated figures and amplified interest in his club career trajectory in the following years.
As for ongoing discussions and developments, observers continue to monitor Messi’s status and the evolving strategy of Inter Miami. While retirement rumors periodically surface from various corners, official narratives from Messi’s representatives and league announcements indicate continued participation at the highest levels of professional football. The broader context includes the MLS’s ongoing efforts to attract marquee players, expand its global footprint, and provide competitive environments that appeal to star talent and dedicated fans alike. These dynamics contribute to a growing belief that the next chapters of Messi’s career could influence both the club’s trajectory and the league’s broader ambitions. The evolving dialogue around Messi and Inter Miami is shaped by performances on the field, contract negotiations, and the strategic directions pursued by ownership and league leadership, all contributing to a narrative that resonates with supporters across North America. (Source attribution: El País; official club communications; international press reports)