Lionel Messi’s Magical Future: Inter Miami Confident Amid Possible Newell’s Fairy-tale Reunion

Lionel Messi's illustrious career seems far from over, with Inter Miami’s top brass exuding optimism that the footballing icon will remain anchored in Major League Soccer beyond 2025. Meanwhile, the romantic notion of Messi concluding his journey where it once began—in his native Rosario with Newell’s Old Boys—continues to allure fans worldwide. These intertwined possibilities have reignited intrigue surrounding one of sport’s greatest stars, raising the prospect of a fitting finale to a legendary career.

Inter Miami co-owner Jorge Mas recently revealed his confidence in extending Messi’s stay at the club through the 2026 season, insisting “all the stars are aligning” for a continued partnership. Messi’s current contract expires at the end of 2025, but with an option for an additional 12 months, the Herons are hopeful to secure their talisman until after the new stadium’s grand opening. Speaking to Futbol de Primera, Mas stated, “My expectation is that we will see the team's captain and number 10, Lionel Messi, in the new stadium... We are talking to him about his future at the club.” According to Mas, discussions should yield clarity within the next 60 to 90 days to help shape Inter Miami’s future plans.

Underscoring the depth of their relationship, Mas also hinted that Messi’s influence could extend well past his playing days, potentially as a club shareholder and legacy builder. “He wants to leave it as a legacy to his children,” Mas said, highlighting Messi’s unique bond with the fledgling franchise. The project’s ambition mirrors the star’s own, creating a mutually beneficial partnership thriving on and off the pitch.

Yet, while Miami prepares for more magic from Messi, whispers grow louder of a return to his roots. Born and raised in Rosario, he first dazzled at Newell’s Old Boys’ youth academy before leaving for Barcelona as a 13-year-old prodigy. Despite global fame, the dream of donning Newell’s senior shirt lingers. Head coach Cristian Fabbiani recently voiced hope Messi might sign—even if briefly. “I hope Messi comes to play for just four months... he could make a good duo with Ever Banega,” Fabbiani told ESPN F90. Such an emotional swansong would fulfil a long-held yearning for fans and player alike, uniting ends of his storied journey.

Indeed, past interviews reveal Messi’s affection for Newell’s, admitting back in 2016, “If I go back to Argentina tomorrow... the club I would play for would be Newell’s.” Spanish outlets have echoed claims that his ultimate wish is “to hang up his boots” there. Yet, complicating this fairy-tale is Messi’s own previous hint at a Camp Nou encore, confessing, “I can’t leave football without playing at the new Camp Nou.” The tangled web of promises and passions charts a complex course for his future, weighing family ties, personal dreams, and professional ambitions.

For now, however, the Argentine maestro remains laser-focused on Inter Miami’s present campaign. Despite a minor hip injury and missing several games, Messi has already delivered five goals in six appearances, propelling Miami to the summit of the Eastern Conference and fueling hopes of a deep CONCACAF Champions Cup push. Club insiders and supporters alike will be eager to see him lead a trophy-laden 2025, culminating perhaps with a fresh chapter in 2026.

Whether Messi’s remarkable journey takes him deeper into Miami’s sun-drenched success or back to his Argentine roots, one thing remains certain—it promises to be a poignant finale worthy of the beautiful game’s greatest artist. Will he pen his footballing epilogue at Inter Miami or relive the poetic pageantry of Rosario? Fans the world over will watch with bated breath. Share your thoughts below: Should Messi’s last dance be under the MLS spotlight or on Argentina’s hallowed turf?

• Inter Miami
• Lionel Messi
• Newell's Old Boys

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