What happens when Lionel Messi leaves MLS? Inter Miami expect to have ‘multiple global superstars’ in 2027

The Herons welcomed eight-time Ballon d’Or winner Messi onto their books in the summer of 2023. He helped to deliver a historic Leagues Cup triumph within weeks of his arrival, and is allowing dreams of MLS Cup glory to form in 2024.

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Inter Miami have their talismanic captain tied to a contract through 2025, with a 12-month extension option within those terms that could include the next World Cup finals – which will take place in the United States, Canada and Mexico. There will, however, come a day when Messi packs up his bags and moves on - potentially into retirement.

Long-term plans need to be drawn up at Chase Stadium by David Beckham and the club’s ownership team, with Jorge Mas telling TIME of why Inter Miami are confident that more household names will be in their ranks by the time an emotional farewell is bid to Messi. He said: “We do anticipate, in 2027 and beyond, to have a, or multiple, global superstars on our roster. We've become a beacon for the sport in the U.S. I don’t think there’s any limits to the future.”

Messi’s presence in Miami has allowed the likes of Luis Suarez, Sergio Busquets and Jordi Alba to be drafted in alongside him. There is talk of Real Madrid captain Nacho arriving this summer, once he hits free agency, while a deal for World Cup winner Angel Di Maria is also said to be in the pipeline.