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Lionel Messi names final club he’ll play for in his career and discloses reason for leaving Europe for MLS.
In a recent interview with ESPN, Lionel Messi confirmed that Inter Miami will be the last club of his storied career.
Despite acknowledging that he is not yet ready to retire, Messi stated, “Inter Miami will be my last club, yes. As of today, it’s going to be my last one.” He expressed his ongoing love for football and his awareness that his playing days are gradually winding down.
Messi also revealed that winning the 2022 World Cup in Qatar influenced his decision to leave Europe for Major League Soccer (MLS).
He signed with Inter Miami on July 15, 2023, after two seasons with Paris Saint-Germain. This move is considered the biggest signing in MLS history.
In his debut season with Inter Miami, Messi won the Leagues Cup alongside former Barcelona teammates Jordi Alba and Sergio Busquets. Although Miami did not qualify for the MLS Playoffs, they currently lead the Eastern Conference with 18 games played.
Messi’s departure from Barcelona was a significant and emotional moment in sports history. His tenure at PSG felt out of place for many, as he was expected to spend his entire senior career in Spain. The transition to MLS sparked immense interest in the league, particularly with the addition of other former Barcelona players and the signing of Luis Suarez this season.
While it might be premature to put an end date on Messi’s career, his statement about Miami being his last club adds a sense of finality. It also temporarily closes the door on a potential reunion with Barcelona.
Messi and the Argentine national team, La Albiceleste, are focused on defending their Copa America title this summer. Winning another major international trophy would further solidify Messi’s legacy, following his victories in the Copa America and the World Cup in consecutive years.