Lionel Messi nears Inter Miami contract decision with GOAT snubbing Barcelona & Newell's Old Boys returns to 'help new project'

The Athletic have issued an update regarding an update on the future of Messi, whose contract with Miami runs out at the end of 2025. The belief is that the great Argentine will sign a new deal with the MLS club, to the disappointment of those who had hoped for an emotional return to one of his first clubs, Newell's Old Boys in his native Rosario, Argentina, or to his second home of Barcelona. Sources claim that Messi may decide to stick around in Miami to help the club's 'new project' grow instead.

The Athletic argue in the report that a return to Newell's would provide an even less competitive environment than that which he currently experiences at Inter Miami. While Argentine football culture is as strong and passionate as ever, Newell's have not won a trophy since 2013 and languished in 25th in the Primera Division standings in 2024. Despite his close ties to the club, it is believed that this would not be a compatible environment with Messi at this point in time.

As for Barcelona, Messi is said not to trust club president Joan Laporta, and the Catalan club remain in an undesirable financial situation regardless. There may not be any better options than to remain in Miami for at least a year longer.

Messi has scored 50 goals in 63 appearances for Inter Miami, netting his half-century for the club with a stunning free-kick against Porto in the Club World Cup last month. It remains unconfirmed whether the 38-year-old intends to compete in the 2026 World Cup with Argentina. If he doesn't, then a 4-0 last 16 defeat to former club PSG with his current employers may have been his final game on the global stage.

Messi has a few short months to decide what the next chapter in his illustrious career should be. The MLS club will have departed from the Club World Cup with their head held high despite defeat against the Parisians, as the Florida outfit exceeded expectations to reach the knock-out rounds and out-did the MLS's other participants - arguably justifying their controversial inclusion in the tournament.