Messi’s Miami Future: Will He Stay or Go?

Messi’s Future in Miami: Will He Stay? Plus, Mascherano’s Appointment Sparks Debate

It’s the question on every soccer fan’s mind: will Lionel Messi extend his stay with Inter Miami? The MLS club is reportedly pulling out all the stops to keep the 37-year-old Argentine superstar in South Florida, and the stakes couldn’t be higher. According to AS, negotiations are ongoing, with Inter Miami “working tirelessly” to secure Messi’s future through 2026. But that’s not the only headline-grabbing move the Herons have made recently. The appointment of Messi’s former teammate, Javier Mascherano, as head coach has sparked plenty of chatter—and not all of it positive.

Let’s dive into the latest transfer rumors, news, and gossip swirling around the soccer world, starting with the drama unfolding in Miami.

Mascherano’s Appointment: A Messi Connection?

When Inter Miami announced that Javier Mascherano would take over as head coach, eyebrows were raised. Mauricio Pedroza didn’t hold back, suggesting that Mascherano’s hiring might have more to do with his relationship with Messi than his coaching credentials. It’s a bold claim, but one that’s hard to ignore given the timing. With Messi’s contract set to expire next year, Inter Miami co-owner Jorge Mas has already gone on record saying he “expects” Messi to stay at the club. Could Mascherano’s appointment be part of a larger strategy to keep the GOAT happy in Miami?

Adding to the intrigue, Inter Miami also announced that striker Luis Suárez has signed a one-year contract extension. The trio of Messi, Suárez, and Mascherano brings back memories of their glory days with Barcelona and the Argentine national team. But will nostalgia be enough to keep Messi in pink and black?

Global Transfer Rumors Heating Up

While Miami dominates the MLS headlines, Europe’s top clubs are also making waves in the transfer market. Here are some of the biggest stories:

• Theo Hernández: The AC Milan left-back is reportedly on Bayern Munich’s radar as a potential replacement for Alphonso Davies. With Davies linked to Real Madrid, Bayern is said to view Hernández as the ideal successor. However, Manchester United could complicate things, as they’re also reportedly interested in the 27-year-old.
• Christopher Nkunku: Despite rumors, Borussia Dortmund is reportedly not pursuing the Chelsea forward, according to Bild’s Christian Falk. Nkunku’s future at Stamford Bridge remains uncertain, with just one start in 11 Premier League appearances this season.
• Bryan Mbeumo: The Brentford winger is attracting interest from multiple Premier League clubs, including Arsenal, Newcastle United, and Liverpool. The Bees are reportedly asking for a fee in the region of £40 million.
• Ben Chilwell: Manchester United is reportedly eyeing the Chelsea defender as a top option for their left-back position. Chilwell has struggled for playing time this season, making just one appearance in the Carabao Cup.

What’s Next for Messi?

As the soccer world waits for Messi’s decision, one thing is clear: Inter Miami is doing everything in its power to keep their star player. From Mascherano’s appointment to Suárez’s contract extension, the Herons are pulling out all the stops. But will it be enough to convince Messi to stay through 2026? Only time will tell.

For now, fans can only speculate—and keep refreshing their feeds for the latest updates.