How Lionel Messi could make sensational return to European football in 2025 despite new Inter Miami contract - explained

Per SB Nation, Inter Miami are all set to offer a new contract to their star player Lionel Messi, whose current deal expires in 2025. In the new contract, there will be an option that will allow the Argentine star to play in Europe after the MLS 2025 season is over.

An MLS season starts in February and ends in December. Under the new terms of the fresh contract, Messi will be able to join a European club on loan after December so that he can keep himself fit ahead of Argentina's World Cup title defence in the summer of 2026 in North America. The 37-year-old, however, is yet to put pen to paper on a new deal and is yet to decide on which European club to pick if such a clause is included.

Several top stars in the past have taken such an opportunity. Thierry Henry joined Arsenal on loan while playing for New York Red Bulls while David Beckham and Zlatan Ibrahimovic signed for AC Milan on short-term deals while being employed by LA Galaxy.

The Herons unveiled the club's pre-season plans on Friday, confirming a five-match schedule leading up to the 2025 MLS season. After playing in Asia as part of a globe-trotting 2024 tour, the Herons will stay in the Western Hemisphere this time around as they bounce across North, South and Central America.