Inter Miami outlines possible post-retirement role for Messi

Inter Miami's chief commercial officer Javier Asensi outlined how Lionel Messi could remain connected to the club after he retires, speaking publicly on 08.08.2026. Asensi said the club is already thinking about a long-term plan that would include the Argentine star in a new capacity once his playing days end.

Asensi framed the discussion as pragmatic planning rather than an immediate change to Messi’s status at the club. He told reporters: "There will come a time when Messi will no longer play. It's sad to say, but it is obvious: he will not be able to play another 15 years. It would be irresponsible not to think about the post-Leo era. But as long as he wants to play, let him play. He, more than anyone else, has earned the right to decide for himself when he will retire.

"The idea is for Messi to have the opportunity to remain involved with Inter after retirement. Under the rules, he currently cannot be a co-owner of the club, because MLS regulations prohibit that. However, once he stops playing, he will immediately become one of Inter's shareholders." Asensi said.

MLS rules and ownership

Asensi explained that current MLS regulations prevent active players from holding co-ownership stakes in clubs, a restriction that would end once Messi officially retires. The club’s plan, he added, is to secure a formal role for Messi that allows him to keep contributing to Inter Miami beyond his on-field career.

While Asensi stressed that Messi should be free to choose the timing of his retirement, the club is already preparing options that range from shareholder status to other forms of involvement. The announcement signals Inter Miami’s intent to lock in continuity around its most high-profile signing.

The comments come as part of a broader conversation at the club about succession and legacy planning around a player whose presence has reshaped attention on MLS.

Photo: Inter Majami\/Tviter