Lionel Messi 'makes decision' on next club ahead of Inter Miami contract expiration

The 37-year-old enjoyed a productive summer on the international scene, winning his second Copa America with Argentina during the 2024 tournament hosted in the United States.

Messi picked up an ankle injury in the final success over Colombia and consequently missed two months of action for pacesetters Inter Miami in MLS.

The former Barcelona star returned to the American stage on September 15, bagging a brace and providing an assist as the Herons beat Philadelphia Union 3-1.

Inter Miami are on the verge of winning the Supporters' Shield, sitting six points ahead of second-placed LA Galaxy despite playing a game fewer.

Messi set for shock return?

According to Spanish publication El Nacional, Messi has already decided his next destination in the footballing world ahead of his inevitable Inter Miami exit.

The report claims that the legendary attacker has opted for an emotional return to his native Argentina, where he will take a trip down memory lane.

It is understood that Messi will ply his trade for Newell's Old Boys, the club where he started his career before leaving for Barcelona at the age of 13.

The World Cup winner will allegedly link up with the Lepers in December 2025, when his current deal at Inter Miami comes to a conclusion.

Messi supposedly feels that the most fitting end to his career would be to finish off at the club where it all started back near the turn of the 21st century.

Messi still has plenty to offer

Despite turning 37 over the summer, it is clear that Messi still has plenty to offer at the top level of football, as shown by his staggering numbers in 2024.

Regardless of an extended spell on the sidelines due to an ankle injury, the generational talent has netted 14 goals and provided 10 assists in 15 MLS matches for Inter Miami.

Messi could be in action on Saturday night, when Gerardo Martino's Herons host Eastern Conference contenders Charlotte FC at Chase Stadium.