Jordi Alba Sends Clear Message on Lionel Messi’s Future

Alba emphasized to reporters that the negotiations were only about himself, but he made his separate feelings on Messi loud and clear.

"I hope that Leo stays," Alba said in Spanish. "I think he is a vital player for us and obviously for the club as well."

Alba's hopes align with those of managing owner Jorge Mas, who last spoke about Messi's future in early April.

"The stars are aligning for something great, for a beautiful future for the club and for Lionel. It’s solely his decision,” Mas said in an interview. “I expect that within 60-90 days we’ll have to determine all of this. 

Messi's current contract runs out at the end of the 2025 season. With no recent updates about the captain signing an extension and the team in a rough patch of form, worry has grown that he could leave Inter Miami before 2026 — a huge year that includes the planned opening of a new stadium and a FIFA World Cup featuring seven matches in Miami.

"My hope has always been — and everything we’re doing — is to see Messi play at our new stadium in 2026," Mas said. "Hopefully, that happens."

The Herons' next match is Sunday's MLS Rivalry Week showdown with Florida Derby opponent Orlando City SC. The outcome is critical for Miami, which is one point ahead of Orlando in the Eastern Conference standings after winning just one of its last four league matches.