Mascherano cautious on Messi Inter Miami extension amid contract talks

Inter Miami manager Javier Mascherano has adopted a cautious approach regarding reports that Lionel Messi is close to signing a multi-year contract extension with the club. Despite transfer expert Fabrizio Romano's update that an agreement is at an advanced stage pending MLS approval, Mascherano refrained from confirming or denying the rumors, stating it is not his place to make such announcements. Messi has significantly impacted Inter Miami since joining in July 2023, leading the team to major titles and earning the 2024 MLS MVP award. The Argentine forward's current contract expires at the end of 2025, with Messi free to negotiate elsewhere, though reports suggest the extension could extend beyond 2026. Mascherano emphasized that an official announcement should come from the appropriate parties and expressed hope that the extension would happen soon, highlighting its positive implications for American soccer. Meanwhile, other key players like Luis Suarez and Sergio Busquets face similar contract uncertainties, while Jordi Alba and Noah Allen have recently secured longer-term deals with the club.