Inter Miami to Loan Messi to Europe Before World Cup
Inter Miami is planning a European loan for Lionel Messi during the MLS offseason to keep him match-ready for the 2026 World Cup.
Inter Miami is reportedly planning a groundbreaking move to ensure Lionel Messi remains in top form ahead of the 2026 World Cup. The MLS club, owned by David Beckham and Jorge Mas, is negotiating an extension to Messi’s current contract, which runs until December 2025, with an optional one-year extension.
The centerpiece of this proposed extension is a provision that allows Messi to play for a European club on a short-term loan during the MLS offseason. This arrangement is designed to keep Messi sharp and competitive during the extended break between MLS seasons, which spans from October to late February or early March.
Such a move would mirror strategies employed by top MLS players in the past, allowing them to maintain peak performance through exposure to Europe’s high-level competitions. For Messi, this opportunity could prove crucial as he prepares to lead the Argentina national team in their defense of the World Cup title. The tournament, set to kick off on June 11, 2026, will demand players to be in their best physical and tactical condition.
While the potential European clubs for Messi’s loan spell have not been disclosed, the flexibility of this plan highlights Inter Miami’s commitment to aligning with the star’s career ambitions. Messi’s presence in Europe during the offseason could also serve as a boost for his global fanbase and keep him in the spotlight on the world stage.
Inter Miami’s proactive approach to extending Messi’s contract and ensuring his readiness for the World Cup reflects the club’s understanding of their marquee player’s dual responsibilities as a club star and national team leader. This innovative strategy could set a precedent for MLS clubs managing global superstars in the future.