Lionel Messi has been urged to move away from Major League Soccer (MLS) side Inter Miami to a more demanding league to better prepare for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Former Manchester City defender Terry Phelan expressed concerns that Messi’s current competition level in MLS may be too low to keep him at peak form for the tournament next year.
Phelan told GOAL that Messi appears to be finding the MLS too easy, comparing it to playing on a video game. He suggested that a league like the Saudi Pro League, which performed strongly at the recent FIFA Club World Cup, could offer Messi greater challenges to sharpen his skills before representing Argentina on the world stage.
Why MLS May Not Be Enough: Insights from Phelan on Messi’s Future
Discussing the situation, Phelan praised David Beckham’s efforts in building Inter Miami and attracting top talent, including former Barcelona players. However, he questioned whether Messi considers the need for tougher competition ahead of the World Cup.
“That’s the $100 million question isn’t it. I think David Beckham has done a wonderful job at Miami. He’s built a club with the support around him and a support network. I think he had this vision of getting some of the best players in the world – the Barcelona players have been thrown in there.” —Terry Phelan, Former Manchester City Player
“Are we looking at Messi looking at the World Cup and going ‘I need to play in a better competition because I need to be in form for the World Cup next year?’ Saudi Arabia? He doesn’t need the money to go and play there. We know the Saudi teams did well [at the Club World Cup], they beat Manchester City, won one or two games, but that’s not the be all and end all.” —Terry Phelan, Former Manchester City Player
“With Messi, if he really wants to get that appetite, I think he needs to go somewhere that he’s going to get better competition for himself. It’s too easy. You look at his stats, you look at videos, it’s like PlayStation for him at the moment. It’s not healthy. He’s gone over there, shirts have been sold, revenue has been built, Miami can go and build a big new stadium. They will always be there or thereabouts, but he has got to think about what he’s going to do with the World Cup next year if he is going to play with Argentina,” he concluded.” —Terry Phelan, Former Manchester City Player
Messi’s Current Form and Contract Situation at Inter Miami
Despite the critique of the MLS competition level, Messi is enjoying significant success in the league. He has scored two goals in five of his last six MLS matches this season, demonstrating his ability to perform consistently. Currently, he is in the final months of his contract with Inter Miami, giving him the option to negotiate with other clubs ahead of the 2026 World Cup.
The Possibility of Messi Leaving MLS in Search of Stronger Challenges
Earlier this summer, rumors circulated about Messi potentially exiting Inter Miami to join a more competitive league. ESPN reported that Messi was considering playing at a higher level to maintain peak form for the World Cup. However, reports from The Athletic suggest Messi might be closer to extending his stay with Inter Miami rather than leaving. David Ornstein noted that Saudi Arabian club Al Ahli, the reigning AFC Champions League Elite winners, were keen on acquiring Messi to reinforce their squad.
Other Views on Messi’s Next Career Move
Emile Heskey, a former Liverpool striker, recently shared his opinion about Messi’s future. Heskey recommended that if Messi chooses to leave Inter Miami this year, a return to Barcelona should be prioritized over any other destination, emphasizing the legendary connection Messi has with the club.
Significance of Messi’s Decision and Potential Impact on Argentina’s World Cup Prospects
Messi’s choice of club ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup holds critical importance not only for his personal preparation but also for Argentina’s chances at the tournament. Playing in a more competitive environment could help him regain his hunger and maintain peak fitness against world-class opposition. Conversely, remaining in MLS might provide stability and the chance to continue building Inter Miami’s brand but may risk less rigorous match conditions. The coming months will be decisive in shaping Messi’s path toward the 2026 World Cup.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Is Lionel Messi religious?
A. He grew up in a Roman Catholic family, sharing their faith. He has two tattoos showing his beliefs: Jesus Christ with a crown of thorns on his right shoulder and a rosary on his forearm.
Q. Is Lionel Messi’s religion?
A. He was deeply impacted by her death just before he turned eleven. As a dedicated Catholic, he honors her memory by pointing to the sky after scoring a goal, symbolizing a tribute to his grandmother.