In an emphatic declaration of his continued commitment to the beautiful game, Lionel Messi has inked a fresh three-year deal with Inter Miami, dispelling any notions of an imminent retirement.
The news arrives on the heels of teammates and former Barcelona icons Sergio Busquets and Jordi Alba announcing their impending retirements at the close of the Major League Soccer season. Yet, where some careers are winding down, Messi’s is poised to endure, much to the delight of football aficionados worldwide.
Messi’s extension will see him don the Miami shirt until December 2028, ensuring his participation in club football for the foreseeable future. David Beckham’s MLS outfit is also set to unveil a new stadium next year, where Messi will undoubtedly be a central figure.
At 38, the Argentine skipper continues to dazzle, boasting an impressive tally of 29 goals and 17 assists this season. His contributions have been pivotal, with Inter Miami concluding the regular season strong, ranking third in the Eastern Conference, and leading the league in goals with a whopping 81 from 34 matches.
This new contract not only bolsters Inter Miami’s ambitions but also signals Messi’s intentions to champion his national side Argentina in next summer’s World Cup, set to take place across North America. His ongoing involvement offers a beacon of continuity for a team aiming to defend their title from the 2022 tournament in Qatar.
Inter Miami confirmed the exciting details of Messi’s contract amidst plans for their new stadium, promising to be a state-of-the-art footballing haven set to open in 2026. The announcement saw the Argentine legend, pen in hand, standing on the future site of his club’s new home.
For teammates Busquets and Alba, however, the curtain is drawing to a close. Busquets announced his retirement in late September, expressing gratitude for nearly two decades of professional play, a sentiment echoed by Alba in a heartfelt video revelation earlier this month.
While the MLS Cup final will mark the end of an era for some, Messi’s freshly signed contract suggests it’s only the beginning for him. His presence will be charted into the club’s future as Alba and Busquets step into their final months on the pitch. Meanwhile, fellow Inter Miami star Luis Suarez, also 38, remains uncertain about his future, with options to renew or retire yet undecided.
Messi’s anticipated tenure ensures Inter Miami’s freshly-minted stadium will not want for talent or spectacle, as the iconic forward continues to etch his indelible mark on football history.
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