Inter Miami is undergoing a significant transformation as it gears up for the 2025 Major League Soccer (MLS) season. Co-owner Jorge Mas recently discussed the future of the club and the pivotal role Lionel Messi is expected to play in it. Since joining the franchise in July 2023, Messi has not only garnered attention but has also made substantial contributions on the pitch. This article delves into the insights shared by Mas regarding Messi’s commitment, the upcoming facility move, coaching changes, and the club’s overarching aspirations.
Inter Miami’s initial contract with Messi is set to expire at the end of the 2025 MLS season. However, Mas has expressed a strong belief that Messi will remain part of the organization as they transition to a new stadium—Miami Freedom Park. Despite the absence of an extension option in Messi’s existing contract, Mas is optimistic about future discussions regarding the star player’s role. “Messi is under contract through 2025; Leo and I will sit and discuss the future,” he explained. Mas’s confidence is notable; he anticipates that Messi will continue to be the face of the team during crucial moments as they prepare for an exciting new era.
The significance of Messi’s involvement cannot be overstated. His performance in the 2024 season—where he netted 21 goals and assisted on 17 others in just 21 MLS matches—was instrumental in securing the Supporters’ Shield for Inter Miami. However, the season ended on a disappointing note with an early exit from the playoffs against Atlanta United. This juxtaposition of success and setback could very well serve as a motivating factor for both Messi and the organization as they strategize for the future.
In a surprising turn of events, the departure of head coach Gerardo “Tata” Martino due to personal reasons has initiated further discussions about the team’s future direction. Reports suggest that Javier Mascherano, a former Argentine international and teammate of Messi, could step in as the new head coach. This possible hire reflects a recurring theme within Inter Miami: the integration of Argentine talent and influence, as well as a clear alignment with Messi’s unique playing style and background.
As the team contemplates both roster and coaching strategies, it’s crucial to recognize the pressure to win that surrounds Inter Miami. “There is pressure here to win, and that pressure is going to continue,” Mas asserted. Expectations are heightened not just because of Messi’s star power but also due to the club’s ambitions on several fronts, including the Concacaf Champions League and Club World Cup. The organization is evidently focused on talent acquisition, indicating that they are prepared to use all available mechanisms to optimize their roster. This relentless pursuit of excellence signifies Inter Miami’s intention to establish itself as a formidable presence in league competition.
A Vision for the Future: Team Composition and Aspirations
With the team’s growing aspirations come important roster decisions, including the potential return of key players such as Luis Suárez and Jordi Alba, whose contracts have recently expired. The pressure to finalize these decisions is exacerbated by the impending league deadline, which underscores the necessity for swift and strategic planning. As emphasized by Mas, the team is committed to assembling the best possible roster without budget constraints. “We are going to bring the best players we can from anywhere in the world,” he assured, highlighting the club’s determination to create a winning culture.
Inter Miami stands at a critical juncture as it looks to solidify Messi’s future with the franchise amidst significant organizational changes. Jorge Mas’s assurances about Messi’s continued presence, along with strategic coaching changes and ambitious roster adjustments, indicate a proactive approach to creating a competitive team for the 2026 MLS season and beyond. The unfolding narrative of Inter Miami is undoubtedly one to watch, as it meticulously crafts its identity within the ever-evolving landscape of Major League Soccer.