Inter Miami has confirmed that Lionel Messi will continue his career by extending his contract. This development, alongside Cristiano Ronaldo’s recent contract extension with Saudi club Al Nassr, ensures that both players will remain active in professional soccer for a few more seasons.
Messi’s new contract will last until 2028, meaning he will be 41 years old at its end. Similarly, Ronaldo is contracted with Al Nassr until mid-2027 and will be 42 when his deal concludes.
The upcoming challenge for both athletes is the 2026 FIFA World Cup. While Messi hasn’t yet confirmed his participation with Argentina, the tournament’s co-hosting across the U.S., Mexico, and Canada might influence his decision. If he plays, he could become the only player to appear in six World Cups—a milestone that Ronaldo might also reach.
Portugal, led by Ronaldo, is close to qualifying for the World Cup. With just two matches left in the qualifying phase, the team needs only one point to secure their spot, allowing Ronaldo to aim for six World Cup appearances just like Messi.
Messi’s performance at Inter Miami
Since joining Inter Miami in mid-2023 as a free agent after leaving PSG, Messi has played 82 official matches. He has scored 71 goals and provided 37 assists, contributing to the club’s first two titles: the 2023 Leagues Cup and the MLS Supporters’ Shield.
In the current season, Messi has netted 43 goals and provided 37 assists across MLS, Concacaf Champions Cup, Club World Cup, and Leagues Cup.
He also won the 2025 MLS Golden Boot with 29 goals and is a strong candidate for the MVP, aiming to be the first player in league history to win the award consecutively.
Cristiano Ronaldo’s performance at Al Nassr
After leaving Manchester United in 2022, Cristiano Ronaldo made headlines by signing with Al Nassr on December 30, 2022, playing a pivotal role in boosting the profile of the Saudi Pro League.
Ronaldo is now in his third full season with Al Nassr since his mid-season transfer. He has played 112 matches, scoring 99 goals and adding 21 assists.
Despite his impressive scoring rate, he has not yet won an official trophy with Al Nassr, as the team has faced three consecutive final losses, highlighting the struggle to convert individual success into team victories.