As the club Inter Miami edges closer to securing a spot in the MLS Cup playoffs, they are also on the verge of finalizing a multi-year contract extension for Lionel Messi, according to ESPN. After becoming the first MLS team to defeat a European side, Porto, in the Club World Cup, Messi has proved his worth by scoring 20 goals and assisting 9 times in MLS play. This is despite the challenges presented by injuries, which kept him out of four matches in July.

As they aim for the first MLS Cup in history, having Messi on board will provide reassurance as he has expressed his intent to continue playing leading up to the 2026 World Cup.

In addition, he mentioned having a solid preseason with Inter Miami, underlining his commitment to the club. With more goals to add to his tally and the new stadium, Miami Freedom Park set to open, both Messi and the team have more achievements ahead.

The next big step for Inter Miami is to finalize Messi’s contract and keep him in the mix as they pursue additional trophies.