Inter Miami’s head coach, Javier Mascherano, has made an urgent plea for the swift renewal of Lionel Messi’s contract, emphasizing that the matter is of critical importance to the club. Speaking during a post-match press conference following a thrilling 3-3 draw against the Philadelphia Union on May 24, 2025, at Subaru Park, Mascherano expressed his desire for the Argentine superstar’s contract to be extended “as soon as possible.”
Messi’s current deal with Inter Miami is set to expire at the end of the 2025 season, and while negotiations for an extension, potentially until December 2026, are reportedly underway, no final agreement has been confirmed. Mascherano, while acknowledging that he does not have decision-making authority in the contract talks, underscored the importance of securing Messi’s future with the club. “I’m not the one who decides, but I hope it happens as soon as possible,” he stated, reflecting the urgency felt by the team’s leadership.
The club’s reliance on Messi is undeniable. Inter Miami has been built around the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner, whose presence has transformed the team into a major force in Major League Soccer (MLS). Last season, Messi led Inter Miami to a record-breaking regular-season performance, achieving the highest points total and winning percentage in MLS history with a 22-4-8 record. However, the team’s recent form has been less impressive, with only one win in their last seven matches across all competitions, including a 3-0 loss to Orlando City and elimination from the Concacaf Champions Cup by the Vancouver Whitecaps.
Despite these struggles, Messi remains the cornerstone of Inter Miami’s ambitions. Posts on X have indicated ongoing discussions about his contract, with some suggesting a potential extension until 2026 or even 2027, alongside a lucrative deal reportedly involving a $50–60 million annual salary, revenue from jersey sales, and a share of MLS broadcast subscriptions on Apple TV. However, there are also reports that negotiations have hit snags, with Messi seeking a more competitive team to match his ambitions.
Mascherano’s comments come on the heels of another significant contract renewal for the club, with former Barcelona teammate Jordi Alba extending his deal until 2027. “To sign Jordi for the next two years is important to show stability, and hopefully, in a few weeks, we can have some news about Leo,” Mascherano noted, hinting at optimism for a resolution in the near future.
The urgency to lock in Messi’s future is heightened by interest from other clubs. MLS side Chicago Fire FC and teams from Saudi Arabia have reportedly expressed interest, while Italian giants Napoli are also rumored to be in the race. With the MLS secondary transfer market opening on July 24, 2025, Inter Miami is also reportedly pursuing another Argentine star, Ángel Di María, to reunite him with Messi, further signaling their intent to build a competitive squad around their talisman.
As Inter Miami navigates a challenging season, currently sitting sixth in the Eastern Conference with a 6-3-4 record, the need to secure Messi’s commitment has never been more pressing. Mascherano’s call for action underscores the club’s determination to avoid any further delays in ensuring that the world’s greatest player remains in South Florida.