Lionel Messi's 2026 World Cup plan becomes clearer as contract update emerges

Lionel Messi looks set to extend his contract with Inter Miami, a move which could well see him take part in the next World Cup.

Speculation was rife that Messi could end his American adventure and return to Argentina once his current contract expires. However, an Argentinian news source TyC Sports reports that Messi is ready to commit to David Beckham's co-owned club beyond the end of his current contract in 2025.

Messi, transferred from PSG to MLS in July 2023, has been instrumental in transforming Miami's fortunes. His contributions helped the team win the Supporters' Shield this season, amassing an Eastern Conference record 74 points.

Miami, however, was unexpectedly knocked out of the play-offs by Atlanta United. Despite this disappointing conclusion to the season, it appears that Messi is close to reaching an agreement on a new contract that would see him stay until after the World Cup, which is expected to begin in North America in June 2026, and that the United States, Canada and Mexico would jointly host. the tournament, reports the Mirror.

The extension rumors have now sparked speculation that the 37-year-old legend could make an appearance in his sixth World Cup. The Argentine publication posted on X: “Leo Messi has a contract with Inter Miami until December 2025. There is a desire to renew it until after the 2026 World Cup. It’s about to do so.”

Despite being a senior member of the national team, Messi continues to play a crucial role in the team and has helped Argentina reach the top of the World Cup qualifying table. Many expected the former Barcelona star to return to Argentina soon, but it seems he is more than happy to live in America.

Messi's compatriot and national team legend Mario Kempes says the Miami star is thriving in Florida. Speaking to TNT Sports, Kempes said: “Messi is three times happier playing at Inter Miami than at Barcelona, ​​he does things very well. He doesn't need to be focused for four- twenty minutes. He plays whenever he wants.

Messi's former teammate and Barcelona legend Andres Iniesta also insisted Messi has found a new lease of life in the United States. Speaking to ESPN, Iniesta said: “I would say he has found an environment where he feels comfortable, where he feels comfortable. He is in a project that he is passionate about, a project with an ambition to grow and he is surrounded by great players.

Miami stormed into the playoffs as the top seed, thanks to a standout performance in the regular standings aided by Messi. However, it was Atlanta, who finished ninth in the Eastern Conference and 34 points behind Miami, that abruptly ended Messi's dream of hoisting the MLS Cup.

Despite Miami's failure to win the cup, Messi still managed to score an impressive 21 goals in just 22 league matches, seemingly already securing his status as a club legend.