Connect with us

Major League Soccer

Lionel Messi Reveals Post-Retirement Plans As Inter Miami Superstar Looks To Follow In David Beckham’s Footsteps

Lionel Messi celebrating a goal for Inter Miami CF

Lionel Messi, the Inter Miami superstar and widely regarded as one of the greatest footballers of all time, has revealed his plans for life after hanging up his boots. At 38, Messi continues to dazzle fans in Major League Soccer, but he’s already thinking beyond the pitch—and it may follow in the footsteps of David Beckham, the co-owner of his MLS side.

Messi Still Going Strong

Despite entering the autumn years of his legendary career, Messi has no immediate plans to retire. Last year, he signed a contract extension with Inter Miami until 2028, expressing excitement about moving into the club’s long-awaited new stadium, Miami Freedom Park, later this year.

“It makes me really happy to stay here and to continue with this project that, besides being a dream, has become a beautiful reality… We can’t wait to experience it from the inside, in our new home, and for the fans to enjoy it as well. It’s going to be something very special to play at home in such a spectacular stadium,” Messi said.

A Future in Ownership

While many would expect Messi to go into coaching once he retires, the Argentine icon has other ambitions. Speaking at the American Business Forum and in a recent interview with Luzu TV, Messi made it clear he’s more drawn to the business side of football.

“I don’t see myself as a coach. I like the idea of being a manager, but I’d prefer to be an owner. I’d like to have my own club, start from the bottom, and make it grow. To be able to give the kids the opportunity to develop and achieve something important,” Messi explained.

Messi’s comments echo the path taken by Beckham, who successfully transitioned from superstar player to MLS club co-owner, helping grow Inter Miami into one of the most exciting projects in American soccer.

What This Means for Football

If Messi follows through on these plans, the footballing world could see a new kind of legend: a global icon who transitions into ownership, focusing on nurturing talent and building a legacy off the pitch. Fans in Miami and beyond will be watching closely as he continues to shine on the field while quietly preparing for a future in football business.


Want to advertise with us?
📩 Contact sales@ventolitemarketing.com

Stay with Sports Market International for updates on Messi, MLS, and footballing legends planning life beyond the pitch. ⚽

Advertisement

Click to comment

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Advertisement

Local News8 hours ago

ICPC Takes Anti-Corruption Crusade To NFF

Chi Nnadozie
Women's Football8 hours ago

14th Women Africa Cup Of Nations: Falcons Will Adopt One-match-at-a-time Strategy – Nnadozie

Local News10 hours ago

Enyimba, 3SC, Sunshine Stars, Kwara United, Others Storm Lagos For Football Fiesta

World Cup 202611 hours ago

**Title:** Croatia confirm Slaven Bilic return as former West Ham boss replaces Zlatko Dalic **Meta Description:** Slaven Bilic has been appointed Croatia head coach for a second spell after Zlatko Dalic stepped down following the 2026 World Cup. **Slug:** croatia-confirm-slaven-bilic-return-head-coach **Alt Image Text:** Slaven Bilic during his unveiling as Croatia national team head coach — # Croatia confirm Slaven Bilic return as former West Ham boss replaces Zlatko Dalic Croatia have officially confirmed the return of Slaven Bilic as head coach, with the former West Ham United manager replacing Zlatko Dalic following the conclusion of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Bilic returns to the national team after more than a decade away, ending a two-year absence from management as he begins a second spell in charge of his country. ## Bilic begins a second spell with Croatia The Croatian Football Federation (HNS) announced Bilic’s appointment after the Executive Committee unanimously approved the recommendation of federation president Marijan Kustic. Bilic previously managed Croatia between 2006 and 2012, guiding the national team through two European Championships before embarking on a successful club coaching career that included spells with West Ham United, West Bromwich Albion, Besiktas and Al-Ittihad. The federation believes his experience and deep understanding of Croatian football make him the ideal candidate to lead the next generation. ## Huge task replacing Zlatko Dalic Bilic succeeds one of the most successful managers in Croatia’s history. Dalic stepped down after the 2026 World Cup, bringing an end to a remarkable tenure that included a World Cup final, a World Cup semi-final and several memorable tournament campaigns. Federation president Marijan Kustic acknowledged the size of the challenge but expressed complete confidence in Bilic. > “I would like to once again thank Zlatko for the exceptional results he achieved during his tenure. It is not easy to follow in his footsteps, but we are convinced Slaven is the right person for this role.” Kustic added that Bilic’s international pedigree and extensive coaching experience were decisive factors behind the appointment. ## Bilic honoured to return Bilic described his return as the greatest honour of his coaching career and admitted he understands the expectations that come with leading one of international football’s most consistent tournament teams. > “I would like to thank President Kustic and the Federation’s leadership for the confidence they have shown in allowing me to lead the Croatian national team once again — the greatest honour for any Croatian coach.” The 57-year-old also praised the standards established under Dalic while insisting he is ready for the responsibility. > “I am fully aware of the high expectations that follow such a remarkable period under Zlatko Dalic, but anyone who takes charge of Croatia must be prepared for that because we are a football nation that lives and breathes its national team.” ## A new chapter begins Bilic now faces the task of building on Dalic’s legacy while preparing Croatia for the next international cycle. With a blend of experienced stars and emerging young talent at his disposal, Croatia will hope their returning manager can guide them to another successful era on the international stage.

Sports Analysis12 hours ago

Andoni Iraola backs Harvey Elliott to revive Liverpool career after difficult Aston Villa loan

World Cup 202618 hours ago

Joe Cole backs England to beat Argentina as he claims Three Lions will ‘put Lionel Messi to bed’

Trending