Leo Messi experienced one of those nights that will be remembered forever. El Monumental witnessed what could've been his last match in Argentina wearing the national team jersey. He started against Venezuela in a World Cup 2026 qualifier.
The emotion overflowed from the start. Messi cried during the warm-up, hugged his children, and received the eternal affection of fans who idolize him. Many felt it was a farewell, the definitive goodbye to playing in his country with the Albiceleste.
At 38, La Pulga didn't guarantee his presence at the next World Cup. His words sounded uncertain. The journey with Argentina might've come to an end, and that void weighs as much as his titles.
What's happening with Inter Miami?
Messi has a contract until December 30 with Inter Miami. The American club is delighted with him. Not only as a footballer, but also as a global ambassador for MLS.
The team wants to renew his contract. They're even offering him a stake in the ownership, a gesture that shows what Leo means to the franchise. However, he hasn't made a decision yet.
His immediate future is hanging in the air. That fuels all kinds of rumors. Will he stay in Miami or will a new chapter in his career begin?
The Barça dream
In Barcelona, people talk, dream, and sigh about his return. Messi is the prodigal son who never wanted to leave. blaugrana fans imagine him once again in the culé jersey, closing the circle of his story at Camp Nou.
But the reality is different, the club's finances remain weak and signings of this caliber are impossible. Joan Laporta has made it clear: the desire exists, but the chances are minimal. Romanticism clashes with the numbers.
The Newell's option
Messi's heart always keeps a place for Newell's Old Boys. That's where it all began. That's where he dreamed of becoming a footballer before crossing the Atlantic to La Masia.
Returning to his boyhood club would be a huge gesture. A homecoming tinged with nostalgia, but Newell's financial situation doesn't help. Covering the salary and needs of a global star is beyond its reach.
Saudi Arabia, the great challenge
The other major option comes from Saudi Arabia. Saudi soccer has shown in recent years that it doesn't hesitate to spend. Cristiano, Neymar, Benzema... the list of stars keeps growing.
Messi could be the next to join that league, and the offer would be worth millions. A contract that's hard to refuse, even for someone who's already won everything. Saudi Arabia wants Leo as a global icon, and there's plenty of money to try to make it happen.