Is Messi leaving Inter Miami? World Cup preparation sparks European transfer rumours

The football world is absolutely buzzing with rumours regarding Lionel Messi's future as his Inter Miami contract expires at the end of 2025.

Following Inter Miami's not so surprising Club World Cup exit in the round of 16 against European champions PSG, ESPN Argentina's journalist Esteban Edul claims Messi is considering a move to a more competitive league in the winter transfer window ahead of the 2026 World Cup. With Argentina set to defend their crown , the logic is simple: better preparation requires tougher opposition.

 According to Esteban, contract talks with Miami have stalled, making Messi a potential free agent in January.

However, transfer expert Fabrizio Romano tells a different story via his X handle.

 Club sources insist "both parties are interested in continuing the relationship" and recent reports suggest Messi "is now expected to sign" an extension with Inter Miami.

He moved to Inter Miami for various reasons but one of them maybe is the opportunity to better prepare for the World Cup happening in the US. But we all have to agree that MLS isn't that competitive.

Here's the thing — Messi still has got it. At 38, he isn't the same anymore but he is still a top player but MLS doesn't provide the week-in, week-out intensity that European football demands. That might not serve him good when he meet top quality opponents. 

A return to La Liga or Serie A should sharpen his edge before the World Cup. The Saudi Pro League is also making an bold attempt again with Ronaldo-style money, though that presents similar competitive concerns. But it's still better than MLS, I reckon.

Do we get to see Messi weave his magic in the Champions League one more time? Or does he continue building his American legacy and prepare for the World Cup on American soil?

 From a pure football fan perspective, seeing Messi return to elite competition for one last time would be a gift to the sport. He can still elevate teammates and create moments of magic when surrounded by quality. At Inter Miami, the quality around him is substandard. Yes, Suarez, Busquets, Alba are there but they have regressed so much in their twilight years unlike Messi. 

Whatever Messi chooses, the football world will be eagerly watching. For me, from what I have watched, he's the greatest to play the beautiful game. He has nothing left to prove. The man raised from Rosario has achieved everything in football. But every rumour brings excitement. Perhaps one last dance at his beloved Barcelona, where he hasn't received his much-deserved farewell. Is that possible?

The coming months will reveal whether the little genius will select one final competitive challenge or remain where he is. Let's wait and see.