David Beckham Reveals Lionel Messi’s Retirement Plan

Inter Miami co-owner David Beckham has revealed Lionel Messi’s long-term plan once his playing days come to an end.

Lionel Messi, who guided Inter Miami to the MLS Cup title on Sunday, December 7, has reportedly made it clear that life after football will take him back to Barcelona, the city where he became a global icon.

Messi’s current deal with Inter Miami runs until 2028, but Beckham suggested the 38-year-old already has a vision for his post-retirement life. Speaking to Marca, Beckham explained that he had hoped Messi would consider staying in the United States when he finally leaves the pitch behind.

“I would like Messi to live in Miami after he retires. But Leo told me that he only thinks about living near the Camp Nou,” Beckham said.

The former England captain added that the bond between Messi and Barcelona remains unmatched in modern football.

He said, “There is no player who loves Barcelona as much as he does. You can see the Barca logo on his leg and even on his water bottle.”

Messi, who is widely expected to retire after the 2026 FIFA World Cup, has enjoyed a remarkable spell since arriving in Major League Soccer in 2023 following his departure from Paris Saint-Germain. His arrival transformed Inter Miami’s fortunes on and off the pitch, drawing global attention to the MLS and boosting the club’s commercial value.