Lionel Messi’s future at Inter Miami remains uncertain as the final months of his current contract tick away. With his deal set to expire at the end of December 2025, questions have naturally emerged about where the Argentine icon will close out his career. While fans wait anxiously for an official announcement, Inter Miami co-owner Jorge Mas has once again reiterated the club’s stance with a firm nine-word statement.
In an interview with ESPN, Mas addressed Messi’s future, highlighting both the club’s ambitions and their emotional investment in the star who has already transformed Major League Soccer.
Mas confirmed that discussions over a new contract for the Argentine are still in progress and revealed his personal dream for the Argentine: for the forward to take the field when Inter Miami inaugurates their new stadium, Miami Freedom Park, in March 2026.
“I previously said that my wish, my dream would be for the number 10 to inaugurate our new stadium in March. This is a decision that rests on Messi,” Mas told ESPN. “We wish for Messi to finish his career here. I said a few months ago that we should have news in the summer about that but hopefully it will be as soon as possible.”
This heartfelt hope from Mas—the powerful nine-word statement—“We wish for Messi to finish his career here”—reflects just how deeply Messi is woven into the club’s identity and aspirations.
“We have done everything possible”
Since Messi’s arrival in July 2023, the Herons have experienced a transformation, both on and off the pitch. They won the 2023 Leagues Cup, clinched the 2024 MLS Supporters’ Shield, and set a league record for most points in a season. But beyond the silverware and statistics, Mas stressed that the club’s goal has been to make Messi feel at home.
“But I am optimistic because we have done everything possible for Leo to feel at home, to feel comfortable,” he added. “I always said that he is a competitive animal, he wants to win. I hope we can raise many trophies together here at Inter Miami in the coming years. Here, we’re just waiting to be able to give the fans the good news about Lionel Messi.”
Selfish hopes, shared glory
While Mas avoided putting pressure on Messi, he openly admitted the club’s “selfish” desire to keep the soccer legend as long as possible. “We are a little selfish, we would like to see more trophies and obviously with Messi here. I won’t speak for Messi, but I speak for me and the club. Lionel from day one has said he wants to compete and win. He is a competitive animal.”
He also emphasized that Inter Miami has used every tool available to strengthen their squad, signing young talent and leaving space for more marquee players next season.
“There is no tool that the league provides us that we have not used to better this roster: signing young players, finding other cracks. For next year, [we will] find another star player because we have the space in the roster,” Mas added. “There is no rush, we don’t need to do it today or tomorrow, but soon we will know Messi’s decision and hopefully we remain together for many more years.”
