Argentine star's continued presence boosts MLS appeal, raises chances of future clashes with LAFC's Son Heung-min

[OSEN=Ko Seong-hwan Reporter] This is also good news for Son Heung-min, 33 years old, LAFC. 'The God of Football' Lionel Messi, 38 years old, is expected to continue his partnership with Inter Miami next year.

U.S. 'ESPN' reported on the 18th, Korean time, that "Messi and his current club, Inter Miami, have entered the final stages of concluding a new multi-year contract. The two sides have only a few remaining details to agree on, and the contract is expected to be finalized soon."

The re-signing of the two sides is expected to be announced soon after receiving final approval from the MLS office, barring any major surprises. Inter Miami, which has been confident since the beginning of this year that they could retain Messi, is expected to smoothly secure his signature on the contract.

Messi has also expressed his intention to continue with Inter Miami. The fact that the 2026 North America World Cup, less than a year away, will be held in the U.S. is another positive factor. He still leads the Argentine national team as captain and is aiming for his sixth World Cup appearance. Messi dreams of winning consecutive titles in what could be his final World Cup.

Messi, who is expected to play in the 'pink uniform' next year, left Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) in July 2023 and signed a two-year, six-month contract with Inter Miami, throwing down the gauntlet on the U.S. stage. Messi's move to the U.S., after ascending to the 'GOAT (Greatest of All Time)' status following the Qatar World Cup victory, drew attention from everyone.

As expected, the 'Messi effect' was enormous. Upon joining, Messi led Inter Miami to their first-ever League Cup victory, playing a pivotal role in the club's history. The following year, he lifted the Supporters' Shield, regular season first place, and set a new MLS record for the most points in a single season.

Thanks to Messi, Inter Miami was able to sign several world-class stars who have passed their prime. Led by Messi, they assembled a 'Barcelona alumni' team, including Jordi Alba, Sergio Busquets, and Luis Suárez. This summer, they further strengthened their squad by bringing in Argentine national team midfielder Rodrigo de Paul.

Although Messi is nearing the age of 'not confused' 40, his skills remain intact. In the 2025 season, he has played 36 matches across all competitions, scoring 28 goals and providing 14 assists, continuing to be Inter Miami's 'absolute ace.' Given his symbolism, marketability, and skills, the club's executives are determined to retain him at all costs.

For MLS, it would be a welcome development if Messi remains with Inter Miami. His current contract is set to expire at the end of this year. Additionally, there were speculations that Messi's mind might change due to the trouble caused by his absence from the All-Star game this summer.

Amidst this, Saudi Arabia made another attempt to sign Messi. However, Messi's heart leaned toward re-signing with Inter Miami. In July, the 'BBC' reported, 'Inter Miami is confident in securing a new contract with Messi. They are convinced they can renew his contract,' adding, 'Messi is a key player for Inter Miami and MLS. All parties have begun contract negotiations to extend his stay in the U.S.'

The media outlet also explained, 'There is a widespread belief among club officials and within MLS that Messi will extend his contract. A source close to Messi revealed that he is very open to re-signing despite interest from Saudi Arabian clubs.'

As the top superstar and icon of MLS, Messi's continued presence would be a massive boost for the league's popularity. This is why everyone hopes he retires wearing the pink uniform. Co-owner Jorge Mas also pledged, 'Our goal is to make Messi want to finish his career in Miami. We will create an environment where he can retire comfortably,' vowing to support him until retirement.

In fact, Son Heung-min has also stated that he joined MLS influenced by Messi. Although he received offers from Saudi Arabia, where Cristiano Ronaldo plays, he rejected them all and chose LAFC. Despite being a well-known avid fan of Ronaldo, Son Heung-min decided to move to the U.S. where Messi plays.

In an interview with 'ESPN' last month, Son Heung-min said, '(Messi) is truly amazing. Being able to watch Messi play football is an incredible fortune. Living in the same generation and seeing him score many goals on the European stage and in the World Cup, and then join MLS, has influenced many players.'

He added, 'I, too, was greatly influenced by everything Messi has done for his club and country. That's why I changed my mind. Being able to watch him play is already a fortune for all of us. And now, being able to share the same stadium with Messi is truly fortunate.'

Meanwhile, if Messi re-signs with Inter Miami as is, there is a possibility of facing off against 'LAFC's flagship star' Son Heung-min. Since the two belong to the Eastern and Western Conferences respectively, they cannot meet in the regular season. The only way they could clash this season is if both teams advance to the MLS playoff finals or coincidentally meet in the League Cup draw, making a confrontation unlikely. However, if Messi stays, there could be opportunities next year.

/finekosh@osen.co.kr

[Photo] LAFC, Inter Miami, Goal Zone Social Media.

Lionel Messi set to re-sign with Inter Miami in multi-year deal