Lionel Messi all in at FIFA Club World Cup as he ‘doesn’t like to lose anything’ – with MLS side Inter Miami competing for domestic & international trophies in 2025

The Herons will be taking part in that tournament next summer after accepting an invitation to join a historic global gathering that will be hosted by the United States. The expanded format of a revamped competition will see Messi and Co face Palmeiras, Porto and Al Ahly at the group stage.

Messi has savoured Club World Cup glory on three previous occasions during his time at Barcelona, but the most recent of those successes came in 2015. He has taken his record-breaking collection of major honours to 46, on the back of Supporters’ Shield glory in 2024, and remains the most decorated player of all-time.

Aguero says his fellow Argentine will be eyeing the ultimate prize when Inter Miami grace an international event in 2025, with the former frontman telling FIFA’s official website: “We know that Messi is one of the players that everyone wants to see, so it'll be very nice to see Inter Miami compete at the tournament, especially with Leo in the team. He’s going to want to give his all as he doesn't like to lose anything.

“Opponents will need to be wary even if there’s only a minute of two left on the clock, as he’s capable of punishing you with one of his thunderous strikes, precision-guided free-kicks or just a delightful bit of play out of the blue. And that’s because he’s the best player in the world.”

Messi has been named the MLS MVP in 2024, with his stunning efforts in North America being recognised. He did, however, miss out on ultimate MLS Cup glory at the end of an injury-hit campaign and will be as determined to right that wrong next year as he is to compete for a global prize alongside the likes of Manchester City, Real Madrid, Bayern Munich, Paris Saint-Germain, Chelsea, Juventus, Boca Juniors and Al-Hilal.