With Lionel Messi’s contract being the main topic over the last week, head coach Javier Mascherano made something clear on the comments he previously made on the matter.
Lionel Messi’s contract situation has dominated headlines in recent weeks, especially after the Argentine star sidestepped questions by saying he has “no idea” about a possible extension. In the wake of growing speculation, Inter Miami head coach Javier Mascherano has now clarified his own recent comments on the matter.
Inter Miami’s long-term plan has been to keep Messi through the 2026 FIFA World Cup, but with his current deal set to expire in December 2025, that goal is now uncertain. Prior to Inter Miami’s match against Orlando City, Mascherano had spoken positively about Jordi Alba’s contract renewal and hinted at optimism regarding Messi’s future.
“To sign Jordi for the next two years is important to show stability, and hopefully, in a few weeks we can have some news about Leo. I think it will be very, very important for the club, the fans, and for MLS,” Mascherano told the MLS.
His comments appeared to signal that negotiations with Messi were progressing—until Messi himself quickly poured cold water on the idea. After the loss to Orlando, he dismissed any confirmation regarding a deal, saying with a slight laugh: “No, no. I know nothing about it.”
Mascherano clears up confusion
Inter Miami will be visiting Philadelphia Union on Saturday for another MLS matchup after another defeat, now in the Florida derby, where all eyes will be on main star Messi. Mascherano was again asked to address the status of Messi’s contract, and this time, he set the record straight.
“I’m not the one who should say. There’s a sporting department here that needs to answer that question. Obviously, as the coach, I hope he can renew as soon as possible, that the announcement can be made soon—especially for the peace of mind of the fans and everyone around the club,” the coach told reporters on Friday’s press conference.
He emphasized that his previous comments were more about hope than confirmation: “All I said was that we’re hoping for good news in the short term when I was asked about Jordi. But I’m not the CEO, nor am I involved in the negotiations. I have no idea,” Mascherano concluded.
Inter Miami have three MLS games remaining before kicking off the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup on June 14. While team form has been shaky, all eyes remain on Messi—on and off the field. With speculation continuing to swirl, Inter Miami would benefit from resolving Messi’s contract situation sooner rather than later to avoid unnecessary distractions and maintain momentum heading into a crucial stretch.
