Lionel Messi and Inter Miami set to participate in FIFA Club World Cup: Reports

Inter Miami and Lionel Messi may receive a potential invitation to the 2025 Club World Cup in the USA, which would be a significant opportunity for the team. At 37, he has now returned to Inter Miami, where the team is gearing up for their final regular-season match and the upcoming playoff campaign after the conclusion of the FIFA national window.

Messi is set to take charge of guiding Tata Martino's side to MLS Cup glory after already securing the Supporters' Shield for the club.

The Argentina star previously led the franchise to victory in the 2023 Leagues' Cup and took them to the final of last year's U.S. Open Cup.

Inter-Miami to play FIFA Club World Cup 

ESPN reports that FIFA is preparing to invite Inter Miami to participate in the expanded Club World Cup, scheduled to be held in the USA next year. 

An official announcement detailing Inter Miami's inclusion among the 32 participants is expected in the coming week. Additionally, the CONCACAF region has secured four spots for the winners of the CONCACAF Champions Cup from 2021 to 2024. As a result, Monterrey, Seattle Sounders, Club León, and Pachuca will also compete in next year’s tournament.

The region is guaranteed an additional spot due to the Club World Cup taking place in the USA. While MLS may propose candidates for this extra team, it’s FIFA that will make the definitive choice regarding the final CONCACAF participant. Football's governing body is poised to select a prominent Inter Miami squad, featuring stars like Messi, Luis Suarez, Sergio Busquets, and Jordi Alba.

Lionel Messi has a rich history of success in the Club World Cup, having participated in three previous tournaments and claiming victory each time with Barcelona in 2009, 2011, and 2015. Although fans were hoping for a reunion with Barcelona, the team missed out on securing one of the 12 UEFA spots. 

On the bright side, Messi's current team, Inter Miami, has the exciting opportunity to compete against top-tier clubs like Real Madrid, Paris Saint-Germain, Chelsea, and Manchester City, promising thrilling matchups ahead.