Is Lionel Messi set to return to Europe? If reports from the media outlet SB Nation are accurate, something along those lines might happen later this year. However, Messi’s return to Europe isn’t going to be a straightforward process.
According to the US-based publication, Inter Miami is preparing to offer Messi a new contract as his current deal is set to expire this year. Under the terms of the proposed deal, Messi would be allowed to play in Europe after completing the Major League Soccer (MLS) season in 2025.
The MLS season traditionally begins in February and concludes in December. As per the potential new contract, Messi could join a European club on loan starting in December, primarily to help him stay match-fit ahead of the 2026 World Cup. However, the 37-year-old Argentine superstar has yet to sign the new agreement.
The clause Inter Miami plans to include in Messi’s contract is fully approved by MLS. According to the league’s rules, a player who has spent two years in the MLS can be loaned out temporarily to another club.
There are precedents for such moves. For instance, French star Thierry Henry played on loan at Arsenal during his time with New York Red Bulls. Similarly, while at LA Galaxy, David Beckham and Zlatan Ibrahimović joined Italian club AC Milan on short-term loan deals.
Meanwhile, on Friday, Inter Miami released its pre-season schedule ahead of the 2025 MLS campaign, announcing five matches. Miami’s first game is scheduled for January 18 in Las Vegas against Club América. On January 29, they’ll face Universitario de Deportes in Lima, Peru.
The pre-season tour continues on February 2 in Panama City, where Miami will play Sporting San Miguelito. On February 8, they head to San Pedro Sula, Honduras, to take on Deportivo Olimpia. The tour wraps up on February 14 with a match against Orlando City in Florida.
