Lionel Messi has been linked with a move away from Inter Miami when his contract expires at the end of the year.

So, what will happen? The likeliest scenario is that Messi signs a new deal with Inter Miami ahead of the 2026 MLS season, which will secure his future through next summer's World Cup. Any big developments in Messi's playing career will occur after next summer, whether or not he lifts another World Cup crown.

Messi — widely regarded as one of the all-time greats — put on a show Saturday with two stellar goals and an assist to lead Inter Miami past Montreal 4-1 in MLS play. The 38-year-old scored in the first half with a curling shot into the bottom-left corner.