Lionel Messi has chosen to stay with Inter Miami in Major League Soccer (MLS), opting against a return to European soccer as he prepares for the upcoming 2026 World Cup.

This decision marks a significant turning point in Messi's career, allowing him to build a new legacy in American soccer.

Messi's presence in the MLS has notably raised the profile of soccer in the United States, drawing in sponsors and enhancing the sport's popularity.

Reports suggest that Messi will extend his contract with Inter Miami until 2026, which will include a lucrative salary along with strategic roles in team expansion and brand partnerships.

Since moving to the United States, Messi has established stability for himself and his family, prioritizing a peaceful life over the intense pressures of European football.

The American soccer environment has successfully provided Messi with the comfort he needs, enabling him to plan his retirement on his own terms.

The MLS offers Messi a less demanding schedule, which is crucial for maintaining his physical fitness as he aims to compete in the World Cup at peak condition.

Messi's decision to remain in the MLS definitively ends the hopes of FC Barcelona fans for his return, solidifying his current chapter in American soccer.

His departure from FC Barcelona in 2021 was fraught with financial issues and tensions with club management, particularly under president Joan Laporta.

Messi's choice to continue in the MLS not only closes a chapter in his career but also opens new opportunities for growth in American soccer.