Lionel Messi has confirmed that Inter Miami will be the final club of his illustrious career before he retires from professional football. The 36-year-old Argentine superstar joined the Major League Soccer (MLS) team in 2023 after leaving Paris Saint-Germain as a free agent.
Messi’s current contract with Inter Miami is set to expire at the end of 2025. Speaking to ESPN Argentina, Messi shared his thoughts about the prospect of retirement and his commitment to his new club.
“I’m not prepared to leave football, I did this all my life, I enjoy the trainings, the games. The fear that everything is gonna be over is always there. I think Inter Miami is going to be my last club,” Messi stated.
Messi's arrival in MLS marked a significant milestone in the league’s history, attracting global attention and boosting the profile of soccer in the United States. His presence has not only elevated the status of Inter Miami but has also had a ripple effect throughout the league, drawing in fans and media from around the world.
Before joining Inter Miami, Messi had a storied career in Europe, predominantly with FC Barcelona, where he spent over two decades and established himself as one of the greatest footballers of all time. During his time at Barcelona, Messi won numerous titles, including 10 La Liga championships, 4 UEFA Champions League titles, and 7 Copa del Rey trophies. He also claimed the Ballon d'Or award seven times, further solidifying his legacy in the sport.
After his unexpected departure from Barcelona in 2021 due to financial constraints faced by the club, Messi signed with Paris Saint-Germain (PSG). While his stint at PSG was relatively short, it added another chapter to his remarkable career, as he continued to perform at a high level and contribute to the team’s successes.
Joining Inter Miami represented a new challenge and a unique opportunity for Messi. The move to the MLS was seen as a chance for him to explore a different footballing environment, one that is growing rapidly and has ambitions of becoming a global powerhouse in the sport. For Inter Miami, securing a player of Messi's caliber was a transformative moment, positioning the club as a major player in the MLS and attracting a host of new supporters.
Messi’s influence at Inter Miami extends beyond his on-field performances. He brings a wealth of experience, leadership, and a winning mentality that is invaluable to his teammates and the club’s overall culture. His presence has already inspired younger players and has set a new standard for professionalism and excellence within the team.
Despite his age, Messi continues to demonstrate why he is considered one of the best in the world. His vision, skill, and ability to change the game with a single moment of brilliance remain as sharp as ever. Fans in the United States have been treated to glimpses of his magic, and his matches often draw sell-out crowds eager to witness his genius firsthand.
As Messi approaches the final years of his playing career, his focus remains on contributing to Inter Miami’s success and helping the team achieve its goals. The club is ambitious, aiming to compete for MLS titles and establish itself as a dominant force in North American soccer. With Messi leading the charge, those ambitions seem within reach.
Looking ahead, Messi’s retirement will mark the end of an era in football. His departure from the sport will leave a void that will be hard to fill, given his impact on the game and the countless moments of joy he has provided to fans around the world. However, his legacy will endure, inspiring future generations of footballers and leaving an indelible mark on the history of the sport.
For now, Lionel Messi remains focused on the present, determined to make the most of his time with Inter Miami. His journey in MLS is a new adventure, one that promises to add even more highlights to an already extraordinary career. As he continues to dazzle on the pitch, fans will cherish every moment, knowing they are witnessing the final chapters of one of football’s greatest stories.
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