Talk surrounding a potential return of Lionel Messi to FC Barcelona, or even a farewell stint with Newell’s Old Boys, resurfaced after Inter Miami’s elimination from the Club World Cup at the hands of PSG.

So, what will happen? The likeliest scenario is that Messi signs a new deal with Inter Miami ahead of the 2026 MLS season, which will secure his future through next summer's World Cup. Any big developments in Messi's playing career will occur after next summer, whether or not he lifts another World Cup crown.

The FIFA Club World Cup game between Inter Miami and Palmeiras is on Monday, June 23, at 9 p.m. ET.