Messi could be ready for a quick return to Argentina

Lionel Messi played his last international match for Argentina last month. Now he could be back in his home country as early as January – as part of Inter Miami’s pre-season program.

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Messi scored his 126th goal in his 208th game as Argentina beat Benin 3-0 on an emotional night in Buenos Aires. But it now seems likely that he will be back in January, when Inter Miami are heavily predicted to face River Plate at the Estadio Monumental.

Herons boss Kily González, himself an Argentine, confirmed the news after Miami’s 3-3 draw against FC Charlotte that ended the regular season:

“For me, that situation is almost confirmed. It’s a very strong opportunity. Of course, it’s always good to compete against Argentine teams, like River in this case. Although there’s still a long way to go to get to that moment.

Never played a club match in his home country

Messi has never played a club game in his home country after leaving Argentina as a boy to live in Barcelona. Assuming the match against River is confirmed, it will likely take place in the second half of January – with Miami preparing for the shortened 2027 MLS season that runs from February to May.

Golden Boot for the second year in a row

Messi finished the 2026 season as the winner of the MLS Golden Boot for the second year in a row. The 39-year-old star scored 26 goals and added 17 assists, finishing well ahead of FC Dallas striker Petar Musa (22) and Sam Surridge of Nashville (21).

The Floridian club now enters the playoffs, where they will face the Columbus Crew in the first round. The reigning champions will be wary of a Columbus team that won eight of its last nine games and secured a spot in the playoffs.

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