If you’ve spent the last couple of years wondering if the GOAT is still doing his thing in the Florida sun, the short answer is a loud and clear yes. It’s early 2026, and Lionel Messi is currently gearing up for another massive season with Inter Miami CF.
You probably remember the chaos when he first landed in Fort Lauderdale back in 2023. It felt like the entire world of soccer shifted on its axis. Well, that "honeymoon phase" never really ended; it just got more serious. People kept saying he’d head back to Barcelona for a sentimental farewell or maybe take a massive payday in Saudi Arabia. Instead, he doubled down on the 305.
The 2026 Reality: Where Messi is Playing Right Now
Messi isn’t just "at" Inter Miami; he basically is the club at this point. As of January 2026, he is officially under contract through the end of the 2028 MLS season.
He signed that massive three-year extension back in October 2025, which honestly surprised a few people who thought he might hang it up after his original deal expired. But if you watched him last year, you know why he’s staying. The guy is still a cheat code. He just finished the 2025 season with the MLS Golden Boot, racking up 29 goals in 28 games. He also led the team to their first-ever MLS Cup title after a wild final against the Vancouver Whitecaps.
He’s 38 now. Almost 39. But he’s still the captain, the No. 10, and the primary reason why ticket prices at the LA Coliseum for the 2026 opener are hitting record highs.
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Why Inter Miami Kept Him (And Why He Stayed)
It wasn't just about the money, though the "Beckham Rule" and his equity stake in the team certainly help. There are three big reasons why Messi is still wearing pink in 2026:
- Miami Freedom Park: The club is finally moving into its permanent home. After years of playing at the temporary Chase Stadium (formerly DRV PNK) in Fort Lauderdale, the billion-dollar Miami Freedom Park is set to open its doors this April. Messi reportedly wanted to be the one to christen that pitch.
- The World Cup Factor: The 2026 FIFA World Cup is happening right here in the US, Canada, and Mexico this summer. By staying in the MLS, Messi stays sharp in the same time zones and climates where he'll be defending Argentina's title.
- The "Friends & Family" Plan: The roster looks like a Barcelona reunion tour mixed with an Argentina national team camp. Luis Suarez is still there (his knees are holding on for one more year), and the club recently brought in Rodrigo De Paul from Atletico Madrid. When you’re playing with your best friends, it's hard to walk away.
What Club Does Messi Play For? More Than Just Inter Miami
While his day job is in the MLS, Messi’s "other" club—the Argentina National Team—is still a huge part of his life.
There was a lot of talk about whether he’d retire from international duty after the 2024 Copa America. He didn't. He actually met with manager Lionel Scaloni just a few days ago to map out the 2026 World Cup schedule. Argentina is in Group J, and while Messi hasn't technically guaranteed he'll play every minute, he’s on the preliminary 50-man list.
It’s kinda funny to think about. A few years ago, we all assumed he’d be retired by now, maybe living on a boat or coaching kids in Rosario. Instead, he’s preparing for a "Champions Tour" through Peru and Colombia with Inter Miami before the MLS season even starts.
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The New Look Inter Miami in 2026
The team Messi leads today looks a bit different than the one that won the Leagues Cup in 2023. Legend-status players like Sergio Busquets and Jordi Alba have officially retired, but the club hasn't slowed down. They’ve leaned into the "Messi Wishlist" to keep him happy.
- Sergio Reguilón: The former Spurs and Man United left-back just joined the squad.
- David Ayala: A young Argentine midfielder who’s expected to do the "running" for Messi.
- The Rumor Mill: As we speak, there are whispers about Robert Lewandowski potentially joining the mix if Barcelona doesn't renew his deal.
The club's valuation has skyrocketed past $1 billion. They aren't just a soccer team anymore; they're a global entertainment brand that just happens to have the greatest player of all time on the payroll.
What's Next for the GOAT?
Honestly, the "what club does Messi play for" question might have a new answer in a few years: His Own.
In a recent interview with Luzu TV, Messi mentioned he doesn't really see himself as a coach. He’s more interested in the "Beckham Route"—owning a club. He already has a minority stake in Inter Miami baked into his contract, and he’s been helping Luis Suarez with a fourth-division club in Uruguay called Deportivo LSM.
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But for now, the boots are still on. If you want to see him play, you’re looking at Inter Miami. They report for preseason training on January 17th.
Actionable Tips for Fans in 2026
If you're trying to catch a game this year, keep these things in mind:
- Watch the Schedule: The 2026 season is going to be interrupted by the World Cup in June and July. Messi will likely miss several MLS games during that window.
- Miami Freedom Park Opening: If you want to be at the first game in the new stadium, look for the April 4th date. Tickets are expected to be the most expensive in MLS history.
- MLS Season Pass: Apple TV still has the exclusive rights. If you're outside of Miami, that’s your only real way to watch him every week without a flight.
Messi is still here. He's still the No. 10. And for the foreseeable future, Inter Miami is where he calls home.