Lionel Messi, the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner, has been in scintillating form for Inter Miami, scoring braces in two consecutive Major League Soccer matches. The Herons have rediscovered their winning touch with back-to-back victories, but speculation about Messi’s future at the club continues to swirl as his contract nears its expiration at the end of 2025.
Despite assurances from club officials that a contract extension for the Argentine icon is imminent, no new deal has been finalized, fueling uncertainty. Doubts intensified following Messi’s ambiguous response to an MLS reporter’s question about his plans after Inter Miami’s loss to Orlando City on May 18. Adding to the speculation, reports have linked the 37-year-old with serious interest from Saudi Pro League clubs.
Amid this uncertainty, Messi’s longtime teammate Jordi Alba has expressed his desire to continue their on-field partnership for years to come. The duo, who first shared the pitch at Barcelona in 2012 and reunited at Inter Miami in 2023, have a remarkable chemistry. Speaking to FIFA’s official website, Alba described playing alongside Messi as a “privilege.”
“We’ve been sharing a dressing room for many years now. We were apart for two years, but then the opportunity came along to link up again here,” Alba said. “All it takes is a glance for us to know what the other is thinking. We’re lucky enough to have combined to score many goals. It’s very easy to forge that bond, and I consider it a privilege to line up alongside the greatest player of all time.”
Alba, who has benefited from Messi’s playmaking brilliance, credited the forward for elevating his own game. “I’ve always said that Leo improves any team he’s in, and he’s made me a better player. I’ve been on the receiving end of a fair few of his assists, and I also have him to thank for being able to clock up so many assists,” he added. “After all, every player is keen to boost their stats. I hope we can keep playing together for many years to come.”
Together, Alba and Messi have contributed to 42 joint goal involvements in 393 matches across their time at Barcelona and Inter Miami. As fans eagerly await clarity on Messi’s future, Alba’s comments reflect a deep desire to “chain” the football legend to Inter Miami for a lifelong partnership. Whether the duo can add to their impressive tally remains to be seen, but their chemistry continues to light up the MLS.