As the 2024 MLS Supporters' Shield winner, Inter Miami earned a place in the 2025 Club World Cup as a host country representative. That, in turn, means Messi will be taking part in a FIFA tournament this summer, albeit one where he isn't representing Argentina.

Lionel Messi and Inter Miami were held to a scoreless draw against Egypt's Al Ahly in the opening game of the Club World Cup.

Placed into Group H of the FIFA Club World Cup, Real Madrid find themselves alongside Pachuca, RB Salzburg, and Al Hilal in a bid to make it to the knockouts of the event.Needless to say, they are