Lionel Messi retires from international soccer as Inter Miami contract continues

Lionel Messi has announced his retirement from international football, concluding a tenure with Argentina that spanned 207 appearances and 125 goals. The 39-year-old forward remains under contract with Inter Miami through the 2028 season and has provided no indication he plans to depart the club before that agreement ends. Messi has recorded 98 goals and 54 assists across 111 matches for Inter Miami, maintaining an average of 1.36 goal involvements per game. With his national team career finished, speculation has increased regarding the duration of his remaining club tenure. Major League Soccer is preparing to adjust its competition calendar to a European-style schedule following 2026, while the club recently inaugurated its new venue, Freedom Park Stadium. Messi currently sits two goals away from reaching 100 for Inter Miami as he enters the final stages of his playing career.

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