Bombshell: The New York Times confirmed Messi's continuity at Inter Miami

Lionel Messi keeps Inter Miami, MLS, and thousands of fans on edge who still dream of seeing him return to Argentina. However, a report from the New York Times, through its sports section The Athletic, states that the decision has been made:  the captain of the Argentina National Team will renew his contract with the American club at least until the 2026 World Cup.

"Messi's contract in Miami expires at the end of 2025 and he hasn't signed his extension yet, but he's expected to remain in MLS until 2026," details the article signed by journalist Felipe Cárdenas. The information comes from a source close to the player, who confirmed what had already been reported in April.

The American outlet interprets this delay as part of a usual strategy: "Messi is playing his cards to gain even more leverage in the negotiation, rather than genuinely considering leaving," the report notes.

Regarding the possibility of returning to Argentina and wearing the Newell’s Old Boys jersey, the club where the Rosario star began his career, The Athletic completely rules it out: "Why would Messi leave the comfort he enjoys in Florida for a mid-table club that hasn't won a title since 2013?," it asks critically. "This may hurt Argentinians, especially Newell’s fans, but today his loyalty is with the club that wears pink."

Finally, the outlet highlights that both Messi and Inter Miami's management agree to continue together and that only the timing of signing the new contract remains to be determined. According to the source, the Argentine is aware of the challenge of being part of a young, growing project and feels motivated to keep building it.

This way, the dream of Argentine soccer will have to keep waiting, since everything seems to indicate that Messi will play his last World Cup as a professional defending the colors of the Florida club.