Messi Could Return to Argentina in 2027
Lionel Messi could soon play a senior club match in Argentina for the first time in his career. Inter Miami is currently planning an international tour in Argentina as part of its 2027 pre-season preparations, which features a potential friendly against River Plate at the iconic Monumental Stadium in Buenos Aires. Discussing the upcoming schedule, Inter Miami coach Gerardo Tata Martino indicated that the proposed high-profile fixture against River Plate is nearly certain.
This opportunity emerges just months after Messi emotionally ended his historic 21-year international career with Argentina on October 6. In his farewell match against Benin, he capped off a 208-cap journey with a goal and two assists in a 3-0 victory. Returning to his homeland in Inter Miami’s pink jersey would let local Argentine fans watch the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner live on native soil once again.
The potential friendly carries immense personal significance for the legendary captain, who left Argentina at age 13 to join Barcelona’s La Masia. Although Messi previously faced Argentine clubs like Estudiantes and River Plate in FIFA Club World Cup finals, as well as Boca Juniors and Newell’s Old Boys in friendlies, he has never played a senior club match in Argentina during his legendary professional career.
Before traveling home for pre-season, Messi remains focused on Inter Miami’s upcoming MLS Cup playoff campaign against seventh-seeded Columbus Crew. Finishing second in the Eastern Conference, Miami faces a tough best-of-three series starting November 21 after winning only one of their final four regular-season games. Martino’s side hopes to overcome their recent struggles and defend their title before embarking on their festive 2027 Argentine tour.
