As of Tuesday, July 1, Lionel Messi is officially a free agent, in accordance with FIFA regulations. In this condition, the captain of the Argentine national team is now eligible to sign with any club, since his current contract with Inter Miami expires on December 31. According to FIFA rules, players without a club — or within the final six months of their current deal — have the right to negotiate and sign with another team.
This change in status comes at a critical time, as rumors swirl regarding Messi’s potential departure from the MLS club. One of the most notable suitors is Saudi Arabian powerhouse Al Hilal, who are reportedly preparing an official offer to lure the Argentine superstar.
Being a free agent means that Messi can sign a pre-contract agreement immediately, without Inter Miami receiving any transfer compensation. While he is still under contract until the end of the year, the FIFA rule allows players to secure their next move six months in advance.
Speculation over Messi’s future
Messi’s uncertain future ties into his plans for what may be his final World Cup appearance in 2026, hosted jointly by the United States, Canada, and Mexico. There’s speculation that he may look to join a more competitive European league as preparation. Although he has been a transformative figure in American soccer, there are whispers that he’s not entirely satisfied with Inter Miami’s sporting project.
At the same time, Inter Miami has no intention of letting him go easily. Both the club and Messi’s camp have reportedly shown interest in extending the partnership beyond the current deal, which runs through December 2025.
Emotional appeal from Argentina
Back in his homeland, fans dream of a Messi return to Argentina. Newell’s Old Boys, his boyhood club, remain hopeful — especially considering the recent homecomings of Ángel Di María to Rosario Central and Leandro Paredes to Boca Juniors. A Messi return to Rosario would be historic.
Massive financial impact if Messi leaves
If Messi does leave at the end of 2025, Major League Soccer could see an estimated loss of around $300 million. Since his arrival, ticket revenue has jumped by $265 million, and Apple TV subscriptions surged by an additional $29.7 million, according to Sport.
When does Messi’s contract end?
Lionel Messi’s current contract with Inter Miami officially ends in December 2025. However, discussions around his future have already begun, as U.S. soccer leaders aim to keep him in the league leading up to the 2026 World Cup.