Lionel Messi signs extension to stay with Miami

Lionel Messi has extended his Inter Miami contract through 2028 after a trophy-laden MLS spell that includes the 2023 Leagues Cup, 2024 Supporters' Shield and the 2025 Golden Boot. Betting impact: Miami will be shorter in MLS Cup markets and Messi anytime-scorer/first-goal lines will shorten — punters may favor Messi match-winner bets or play Miami as favorites in early-round playoff markets.

Messi Pens New Deal: Stays with Inter Miami Through 2028

Lionel Messi has signed a contract extension to remain with Inter Miami through the end of the 2028 MLS season. The move secures the eight-time Ballon d'Or winner’s future in the United States after his high-profile July 2023 arrival as a Designated Player.

Immediate Return on Investment: Trophies and Records

Since joining, Messi has driven Inter Miami to tangible success. He helped lift the 2023 Leagues Cup and was instrumental in Miami capturing the 2024 Supporters' Shield. Under his influence the club set a league record for most points in a single season, while attendance and commercial interest surged nationwide.

Individual Brilliance: Awards and Scoring

Messi collected the 2024 MLS MVP award and clinched the 2025 Golden Boot, netting 29 goals in 28 games. He is also nominated for the 2025 MLS MVP and, if awarded, would become the first player to win consecutive MLS MVP honors.

Playoff Focus: Miami Prepares for Nashville

Inter Miami now turns attention to the playoffs, opening the Round One series against Nashville SC at Chase Stadium on Friday as the club chases the 2025 MLS Cup. Messi’s availability and form will be decisive factors for Miami’s title push.

What This Means for Inter Miami and MLS

The extension cements Miami’s status as the league’s headline franchise and provides continuity at the club’s most critical position. Expect sustained media attention, sponsorship momentum and on-field expectations that raise the bar for rivals across MLS.

Betting Implications and Market Movements

Messi’s commitment will likely shorten Inter Miami’s odds in MLS Cup and match markets. Markets to watch: match-winner bets, Messi anytime-scorer and first-goal lines, and futures such as Golden Boot and MVP. Punters should factor in Messi’s fitness and rotation risk late in the season when sizing stakes.

Outlook

With Messi locked in until 2028, Inter Miami enters the playoffs as a reinforced contender. The extension boosts the club’s immediate ambitions and shifts expectations league-wide, making Miami a clear betting and competitive favorite while Messi continues to rewrite MLS records.

Lionel Messi has signed a contract extension to extend his stay at Inter Miami, it has been announced.

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