Messi's Candid Reflection: Ronaldo Rivalry, Inter Miami Future, and On-Field Struggles

Lionel Messi BioSnap a weekly updated Biography.

Lionel Messi has had a tumultuous week both on and off the pitch. In a candid reflection published on May 20, the Argentine star opened up about his legendary rivalry with Cristiano Ronaldo, admitting they "fed off each other" during their 15-year battle at the pinnacle of global soccer. Messi described their competition as "a golden era" and highlighted how they stayed at the top for "10, 15 years," calling it "spectacular."

On the contract front, Inter Miami has hinted at "very important" news regarding Messi's future. Club manager Javier Mascherano suggested that following Jordi Alba's contract extension, fans might expect an update on Messi's contract situation "in a few weeks." The Argentine's current deal expires at the end of the 2025 season but contains an option for an additional year, potentially keeping him through the 2026 World Cup.

Messi's recent performances have been mixed. On May 18, Inter Miami suffered a shocking 3-0 defeat to in-state rivals Orlando City SC, prompting the captain to urge his teammates to stay "united" during this "difficult" period. The loss was part of a concerning trend, with the team losing five of their last seven matches.

Just days earlier, on May 14, Messi was involved in controversy during a 3-3 draw against San Jose Earthquakes. In the dying minutes, the referee denied Messi what he believed was a clear foul near the edge of the box. The decision so incensed the Argentine that he confronted the official after the final whistle and was shown a yellow card.

Looking back to February, Messi starred in Apple TV's post-Super Bowl MLS promotion with the tagline "When Football Ends, Fútbol Begins," helping to unveil Inter Miami's new "Euforia" home kit for the 2025-2026 seasons.

Despite recent on-field struggles, Messi continues to be a transformative figure for MLS and Inter Miami, with his presence generating massive social media engagement and viewership for the league since his arrival in 2023.

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