According to “Varzesh3,” the website Relevo, citing sources close to Lionel Messi, reported that the Argentine star has made a definitive decision about his future in football and life. Messi will remain with Inter Miami for at least another year and a half, until January 2026, before returning to Barcelona.

Lionel Messi has informed Jorge Mas, one of Inter Miami’s owners, that he does not intend to leave at the end of the current season and will extend his contract. However, Messi will leave the U.S. in January 2026 at the age of 37 and return to Barcelona. Relevo states that Lionel Messi will retire at that time. Messi is returning to Barcelona because he has always considered the city his home. It is highly likely that Messi wishes to take on a role in the management of his beloved club, Barça, after retirement.

Meanwhile, The Athletic has also confirmed Relevo’s report, stating that Messi and Inter Miami reached a preliminary agreement in September regarding his contract extension. Inter Miami made its first extension offer to Messi in September. The proposed salary for the Argentine star was around €50-60 million. Messi reportedly sought an increase in this amount, and the club has informed him that a slight raise would not be an issue.