Lionel Messi, the legendary footballer, may finally grace the English Premier League pitches at the age of 38. This potential move is reportedly linked to his preparations for the upcoming World Cup.
Sources suggest the icon is considering a short-term loan switch to a more competitive league next summer. The aim is to ensure he remains in peak form for Argentina`s defense of their World Cup title.
While Inter Miami is reportedly keen to extend Messi`s current contract beyond 2025, the eight-time Ballon d`Or winner might still look at a temporary spell with a top European club.
Reports originating from Argentina indicate that Messi prioritizes getting consistent high-level match experience leading up to the 2026 World Cup, which will be hosted in the United States, Canada, and Mexico. This desire could see the former Barcelona forward take a loan move for several months.
Inter Miami, co-owned by David Beckham, earned a surprising spot in the Club World Cup held in the USA. However, Messi seemed notably frustrated during their significant 4-0 defeat in the last 16 against his former club, Paris Saint-Germain, where the MLS side was clearly outplayed.
Following that match, some observers even suggested the four-time Champions League winner appeared to attempt a punch towards former teammate Vitinha.
Historically, Lionel Messi has never played for an English club. Interestingly, former Manchester City manager Mark Hughes once claimed that Sheikh Mansour made an inquiry about signing Messi on the day of his £200 million takeover of the club back in 2008.
Pep Guardiola, the current manager at the Etihad, was also reportedly interested in reuniting with his former Barcelona star before Messi`s eventual move to PSG in 2021.
Although whispers in Spain occasionally surface about a sentimental return to Barcelona, Spanish journalist Guillem Balague believes this is improbable, largely due to Messi`s difficult relationship with the current club president, Joan Laporta.
Given these factors, a pioneering spell in England could emerge as an appealing and strategic option for the superstar, who boasts an impressive record of 112 goals in 193 international appearances for Argentina.
Marcus Bellamy