Lionel Messi set to extend stay in Miami beyond the FIFA Club World Cup

Lionel Messi will be one of the star attractions at this summer's 2025 FIFA Club World Cup, as he and his Inter Miami side play the role of designated host for the tournament.

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Having signed for the MLS side in 2023, it had been thought the Club World Cup could be his swansong for Miami, with his contract expiring at the end of the campaign. However, reports have emerged that the eight-time Ballon d'or winner could be set to extend his stay in the States. 

According to The Athletic, Messi is set to sign a one-year extension to his deal that would see him play in the MLS for one more season and see the Argentine lead Inter Miami into the new stadium, which is expected to be ready for the start of the 2026 campaign. 

Speaking earlier this month, Inter Miami co-owner Jorge Mas has stated his hope the club's talisman to remain at the club by saying, "The stars are aligning for something great, for a beautiful future for the club and for Lionel. It’s solely his decision.

“I expect that within 60-90 days we’ll have to determine all of this. My hope has always been - and everything we’re doing - is to see Messi play at our new stadium in 2026. Hopefully, that happens."

The extension would also confirm the 38-year-old's intention of playing in the World Cup next summer, as Argentina set to defend the trophy they won in Qatar in 2022. 

Inter Miami have been drawn in Group A at the Club World Cup and will play Porto, Palmeiras and Al Ahly. 
 

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