⚽ Introduction
Even at 38, Lionel Messi is still making headlines, dazzling fans and rewriting records — this time, in the United States. Since joining Inter Miami in mid-2023, the Argentine legend has not only changed Major League Soccer (MLS), but also elevated U.S. football culture. As we reach the midpoint of the 2025 season, Messi’s impact on the pitch and off it is undeniable.
In this article, we’ll explore his full 2025 season stats, top performances, how he’s transforming American soccer, and the burning question — will Messi retire after this season, or play on?
Lionel Messi’s 2025 Stats (As of July)
| Competition | Appearances | Goals | Assists |
|---|---|---|---|
| MLS | 19 | 14 | 11 |
| Leagues Cup | 4 | 3 | 2 |
| U.S. Open Cup | 2 | 1 | 1 |
| Total | 25 | 18 | 14 |
✅ Goal Contribution per Game = 1.28
✅ Leads MLS in key passes per match (3.1)
Highlight Matches of the 2025 Season
1. Inter Miami vs LA Galaxy (March 2025)
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Messi scored a 25-yard free-kick winner
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Assisted both Alba and Suarez
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Final score: 3-2
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Voted MLS Match of the Month
2. Orlando City vs Inter Miami (May 2025)
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Scored brace in hostile away match
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Earned standing ovation from rival fans
Messi’s Impact on U.S. Soccer
Since his arrival:
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MLS ticket sales have increased 300%
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Apple TV+ MLS Pass subscribers doubled
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Youth participation in soccer across Florida rose 45%
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Merchandise: Messi #10 jersey is the top-selling sports jersey in the U.S.
Even global fans are tuning in to watch MLS, changing the league’s global perception forever.
Messi’s Role at Inter Miami in 2025
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Plays as a false 9 or deep-lying playmaker
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Links well with Luis Suárez and Sergio Busquets
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Still executes through balls, dribbles, and left-foot curlers with ease
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Often serves as on-field coach — guiding young U.S. talents
️ Contract Status & Future Rumors
Messi’s current deal runs until December 2025, with an optional extension to 2026. Rumors about his next steps include:
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Contract Extension for FIFA Club World Cup 2025
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Return to Argentina with Newell’s Old Boys
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Retirement followed by a coaching or ambassador role
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Barcelona farewell match in 2026?
️ In his April 2025 interview:
“I feel good. I enjoy the rhythm here. As long as I can help the team, I’ll keep playing.”
Comparing Messi vs Ronaldo (2025)
| Player | Club | Goals | Assists | Age |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Messi | Inter Miami | 18 | 14 | 38 |
| Ronaldo | Al Nassr | 27 | 6 | 40 |
Despite age, both legends remain elite goal contributors.
Off the Pitch: Messi the Brand
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Partnered with Adidas, Apple, and Hard Rock
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New “Messi x Miami” clothing line launched
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Featured in Netflix docuseries “GOATs of the Game” (2025 release)
Social media growth:
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Instagram followers: 620M+
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Inter Miami’s Instagram: +400% since Messi’s arrival
Inter Miami’s 2025 Objectives
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MLS Cup: Top 2 in Eastern Conference
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Leagues Cup: Quarterfinalist
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U.S. Open Cup: Still in competition
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FIFA Club World Cup 2025 (hosted by USA): Messi likely to play
Players Thriving Alongside Messi
| Player | Goals | Assists | Role |
|---|---|---|---|
| Luis Suárez | 11 | 4 | Striker |
| Jordi Alba | 2 | 7 | Left-back overlap |
| Benjamin Cremaschi | 5 | 5 | Young midfield star mentored by Messi |
What Fans Say
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Twitter/X: #GOATInMLS, #MessiEffect, #VamosMiami
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YouTube clips: Messi’s assists & goals reach 10M+ views within 48 hours
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Stadium chants: “Ole, Ole, Ole… Messi!” echo across every match
Conclusion
Lionel Messi’s 2025 season at Inter Miami isn’t just about goals — it’s about legacy. Whether it’s inspiring the next generation or helping build a football culture in America, Messi continues to deliver magic. As the MLS season continues, fans can only hope for one thing — that the GOAT plays on.
If 2025 is his last ride, it’s a beautiful one.
