MIAMI — Lionel Messi recently wrapped up his inaugural full season with Inter Miami in Major League Soccer. Over the past 18 months, he has become the sport’s top ambassador in the United States.

This has exceeded the expectations of MLS commissioner Don Garber, even with Inter Miami’s early exit from the playoffs last month.

Messi’s involvement has significantly raised MLS’s profile internationally, and next summer’s Club World Cup, featuring Inter Miami, is set to further enhance the league’s visibility, which has surged since Messi’s arrival in July 2023.

“I didn’t anticipate it would be this impactful,” Garber said on Thursday during the FIFA Club World Cup group stage draw.

“In the soccer world, especially here in the states, there are so many stars. Unless you’re immersed in football, it’s hard to grasp the incredible allure and fame that Leo Messi possesses. He’s akin to Michael Jackson meeting Taylor Swift, and he’s playing in our league.”

“It’s surpassed my expectations,” Garber continued regarding Messi’s influence. “I’m thrilled with what he has brought to MLS, and my hope is that Leo remains healthy and plays in the league for many more years.”

But the question remains, for how long?

Currently, Messi has a contract with Inter Miami that lasts at least until the end of the 2025 MLS season. Inter Miami’s managing owner, Jorge Mas, is actively pursuing an extension for the World Cup champion and eight-time Ballon d’Or winner.

Mas desires for Messi to still be with the team when Inter Miami plans to open its new stadium, Miami Freedom Park, in 2026.

Messi’s immense global fanbase, including many in Argentina, is also hopeful he will participate in the 2026 World Cup.

“I plan to sit down with Leo this offseason, and I’m hopeful that, as long as Leo Messi maintains his health, we’ll continue to see him in pink,” Mas shared regarding Messi’s future.

Messi and Inter Miami are set to compete in the Club World Cup’s opening match against the Egyptian team Al Ahly at Miami’s Hard Rock Stadium on June 15, 2025.

This tournament presents one of five potential trophies Messi and Inter Miami may pursue next year, following their exit in the MLS Cup playoffs to Atlanta United.

Garber downplayed Messi’s absence in the playoffs, which will conclude on Saturday with the MLS Cup final between the Los Angeles Galaxy and New York Red Bulls.

“Ultimately, you have to compete and win. They had an impressive season as the Supporters’ Shield winner, acquiring more points than any other team in the league’s history. But our playoff format is challenging. They had two home games to secure a win, and Atlanta made a strong comeback,” Garber explained.

“The playoffs have been exciting. We appreciate the surprises, and now we have two remarkable teams in the final. I truly believe any team can prevail on any given day.”

Garber has had a packed week, having attended the groundbreaking for New York City FC’s stadium on Wednesday, participated in the Club World Cup draw, and is headed to Los Angeles for the MLS Cup final.

One thing Garber made sure to do during his trip to South Florida was to meet with Messi and his family.

He came away with one key insight.

“They appear to be very content here – and that’s wonderful. … That’s what truly matters,” Garber noted about Messi and his family.

“Sometimes it’s important to step back. We have Leo Messi in our league, and I hope everyone appreciates how special that is.”