Argentina head coach Lionel Scaloni has admitted he is desperate to see Lionel Messi continue his international career, confessing that the prospect of life without the number 10 brings back painful memories of Diego Maradona’s exit. As the national team prepare for the 2026 World Cup, the 38-year-old Inter Miami star's future remains the primary talking point for all.
Lionel Messi was caught on camera appearing to scold Inter Miami supporters after the club’s hardcore fans staged a silent protest during their MLS victory over the Portland Timbers. The Argentine icon was seen gesturing toward the stands as the atmosphere turned sour despite lofty expectations at the Nu Stadium.
Lionel Messi scored and assisted in the first half, and Inter Miami kept a valuable clean sheet in a convincing 2-0 win over Portland to secure their first home win at Nu Stadium. They leaned on their star Argentine for attacking quality in the big moments and were defensively resolute in a comfortable victory against a spirited Portland side.
Lionel Messi might be entering the twilight of his legendary career, but the Inter Miami superstar has no intention of slowing down ahead of the 2026 World Cup. His club and international team-mate Rodrigo de Paul has revealed that the eight-time Ballon d'Or winner is currently undergoing a gruelling physical transformation to ensure he is in peak condition for Argentina's title defence.
Robert Lewandowski is set to call time on his Barcelona career this summer, with the veteran striker determined to find a club where he remains the undisputed main man. The Polish icon has seen his minutes restricted at Camp Nou this season and is now looking to follow the blueprint laid out by the game’s greatest ever players.
From Alaska to Austin, MLS stars are opening up about the surreal experience of evolving from childhood fans to on-field rivals of Lionel Messi and Inter Miami’s "Barcelona quartet". USMNT forward Brandon Vazquez and Atlético Madrid’s Obed Vargas shared how lining up against their idols felt like a "FIFA console dream" come to life - and how they had to overcome the "out-of-body experience" to actually beat them.
Barcelona wonderkid Lamine Yamal has been informed of what needs to happen in order for him to become a Ballon d’Or contender in 2026, while Ruud Gullit has told GOAL why a ninth triumph for Argentine GOAT Lionel Messi cannot be ruled out. The title of best player on the planet will likely be bestowed upon a superstar performer that illuminates this summer’s World Cup.
Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi would be “very complementary” in the same team, Rene Meulensteen has told GOAL, with CR7 being backed for a move to MLS Cup winners Inter Miami if he lands the Saudi Pro League title with Al-Nassr. The Portuguese GOAT is closing in on another crown in the Middle East, which could lead to him exploring future options elsewhere.
Obed Vargas has opened up about his memorable on-field confrontation with Lionel Messi, admitting he was overwhelmed by the absurdity of being targeted by his childhood idol. The former Seattle Sounders midfielder explained that his laughter during the 2025 Leagues Cup clash was a product of disbelief rather than a lack of respect.
Lionel Messi inspired Inter Miami to a dramatic comeback victory against FC Cincinnati, yet he was controversially denied a 61st career hat-trick by Major League Soccer officials. Despite seemingly finding the net three times during the match, a technical ruling regarding a late deflection saw the league credit the decisive third strike as an own goal instead.
Kylian Mbappe’s dream move to Real Madrid has quickly hit a rocky patch, leading to intense speculation regarding his long-term future in the Spanish capital. Finance experts have now revealed the eye-watering figures required to sign the Frenchman, suggesting only a few destinations on earth could facilitate such a deal.
Lionel Messi is set to make a league record $28.3 million this year, more than all but two MLS clubs' total payroll, the MLSPA revealed in its release of salary data Tuesday afternoon. The Inter Miami star's intake has increased nearly 40 percent since last year. Other top earners included LAFC's Son Heung-Min, Miami's Rodrigo De Paul, and San Diego's Chucky Lozano.
The full extent of Lionel Messi’s financial impact on Major League Soccer has been laid bare following the latest release of official salary data. While the Argentine superstar continues to dominate on the pitch for Inter Miami, the figures confirm he remains in a league of his own when it comes to compensation in North America.
Lionel Messi’s Inter Miami team-mate Sergio Reguilon is preparing to pay a massive $135,000 to fly his beloved pet dog to Florida on a private jet. The former Tottenham Hotspur and Real Madrid defender, who joined the 2025 MLS champions in January, is determined to reunite with his furry companion in the United States, valuing his pet above all else.
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