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Inter Miami co-owner Jorge Mas shared a positive update about Lionel Messi's future at the club. The Argentine superstar has yet to renew his contract with the Herons, with his current deal expiring in December 2025.
Lionel Messi joined Inter Miami as a free agent from Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) in the summer of 2023. Upon joining, he led the Herons to their first titles in history with the 2023 Leagues Cup and the 2024 Supporters' Shield. The Argentine was also named MLS MVP (Most Valuable Player) last year. Despite speculation about his future, Inter Miami is reportedly keen on keeping Messi at the club for a longer period of time.
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In an interview with ESPN this week, the Herons' co-owner, Jorge Mas, provided an update about Lionel Messi's future at the club. He said:
"I previously said that my wish, my dream would be for the number 10 to inaugurate our new stadium in March. This is a decision that rests on Messi. We wish for Messi to finish his career here. I said a few months ago that we should have news in the summer about that but hopefully it will be as soon as possible."
Mas added:
"But I am optimistic because we have done everything possible for Leo to feel at home, to feel comfortable. I always said that he is a competitive animal; he wants to win. I hope we can raise many trophies together here at Inter Miami in the coming years. Here, we're just waiting to be able to give the fans the good news about Lionel Messi."
Despite missing a few games due to fitness issues, Messi has maintained his impressive form for the Herons. The Argentina international recorded 15 goals and six assists in 20 appearances for the club across competitions so far.
Jorge Mas wants Inter Miami to play in the Copa Libertadores where Lionel Messi hasn't featured yet
In his aforementioned interview with ESPN, Jorge Mas also expressed his desire to see Inter Miami feature in the Copa Libertadores. Mas explained that he would like Lionel Messi to play in the tournament for the first time with the Herons.
"I want to be the best team in the hemisphere, including teams in South and Central America, including teams not only in our confederation of Concacaf, but also others. It's been no secret either that I one day aspire, hopefully that Miami plays in a Copa Libertadores because it's a tournament that, firstly, Messi has not played in."
He added:
"Secondly, it's something that we aspire to because I do think that we can compete with the hemisphere's best and hopefully the future allows the opportunity to do that one."
Lionel Messi will next gear up to represent the Herons in the FIFA Club World Cup, set to begin on June 14. The Herons will face Al Ahly in the opening match of the tournament at the Hard Rock Stadium.
