Lionel Messi, Inter Miami reportedly nearing contract extension through 2026 season

Lionel Messi appears set to play in MLS for at least one more year, with The Athleticreporting Friday that the Argentine is expected to sign a contract extension that will keep him with Inter Miami until the end of the 2026 season.

His original deal, signed in July 2023, was set to expire at the end of the campaign. Messi will be 39 by the end of the 2026 season. Messi is currently in his third season in MLS, and has three goals and two assists in four league games.

The move would seem to open the door for the Argentine to play at the 2026 World Cup. There were questions as to whether Messi would return to the national team for a sixth iteration of the tournament, but a new deal will prolong his career for at least 18 months - and ensure that he is at least on the pitch for the tournament, due to be held primarily in the United States.

Inter Miami co-owner Jorge Mas has repeatedly assured fans that Messi will stay at the club through the 2026 season, most recently remarking that "the stars are aligning for something great, for a beautiful future for the club and for Lionel. It’s solely his decision.

“I expect that within 60-90 days we’ll have to determine all of this. My hope has always been - and everything we’re doing - is to see Messi play at our new stadium in 2026. Hopefully, that happens."

Messi has not officially signed a new deal, but it would appear that an announcement is imminent. For now, the 37-year-old will be part of the Miami setup when they take on Chicago this weekend in an MLS clash. The Herons are currently second in the Eastern Conference.