Messi’s contract extension discussed by Inter Miami coach Mascherano ahead of Leagues Cup match vs Necaxa
Lionel Messi’s contract with Inter Miami is set to expire in December of this year, making his renewal a key topic for the club for some time now. Ahead of their second Leagues Cup match against Necaxa, head coach Javier Mascherano weighed in on the subject.
This week, rumors gained momentum again when reporter Xavi Campos on Catalunya Radio claimed that negotiations between Messi and Inter Miami are close to being finalized. According to the journalist, a new deal through 2028 will be signed in the coming days—potentially extending Leo’s career until at least age 41.
During a press conference on Friday, Mascherano was asked whether he had any updates on Messi’s contract status. “If I know, I’m not going to tell you. So there’s no point,” he joked, drawing laughter from those in the room.
Then, speaking more seriously, the coach shared his clear hopes. “Obviously, we all hope that Leo can officially renew his contract,” said Javier. “I also saw the rumors yesterday. We all hope he can renew and stay at the club for a long time.”
Still, Mascherano was careful not to overstep on the issue: “That’ll be a decision between him and the club—something they’ve been discussing privately for a while. And when they feel it’s the right time, or when they reach an agreement, they’ll announce it.”
Will Messi play against Necaxa?
In the same press conference, Mascherano spoke about Inter Miami’s upcoming match against Necaxa at Chase Stadium on Saturday night. Asked whether the Argentine superstar will be part of the lineup for that game, the coach referred back to Messi’s own words after the Leagues Cup debut against Atlas.
“Leo made it very clear the other day after the match. I think it was a message between the lines for all of us. He’s someone who feels much better playing than resting,” Mascherano explained.
As for his plan regarding Messi for the Necaxa match, the coach was direct. “Before the game against Cincinnati, he was dealing with some soreness, but thankfully he was able to rest that week. Unless Leo feels fatigue and tells us, the idea is for him to play every game,” said Javier.
How are Inter Miami doing in the Leagues Cup?
After opening the tournament with a 2–1 win over Atlas, Inter Miami secured their first three points in the Leagues Cup. That result was critical, given the tough structure of the tournament: only four of the 18 MLS teams will advance to the quarterfinals, and the same applies to Liga MX teams in the opposite group.
The Herons currently sit in sixth place in the standings, which means they are not in position to advance as of now. That makes the next two Leagues Cup matches absolutely vital. They’ll face Necaxa on Saturday, followed by a clash with Pumas on Wednesday.