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Messi's time at Inter Miami could soon be over, according to his coach.
Lionel Messi’s time with Inter Miami may finally be running out, if his coach’s comments are anything to go by.
Following Inter Miami’s dramatic playoff defeat to Atlanta United, head coach Tata Martino addressed the Argentine superstar’s future in Major League Soccer (MLS).
Miami lost 3-2 against Atlanta on Saturday night, with Messi bagging a brace.
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However, the defeat ultimately knocked the team out of the MLS Cup play-offs.
Martino’s words have sparked speculation that Messi, who joined the team with much fanfare last year, could soon be leaving Miami — possibly returning to his roots with Newell's Old Boys in Argentina.
“I actually don’t know how limited [Messi’s time in this league] is,” Martino said candidly as per GOAL following the loss.
“There is a question of time passing, but I would not dare to say that it is so short.
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"If you look at the context in which this began, it seems to me that the progress of the club is important," Martino added.
"What happened this year, the bad and the good, in general, have been better than everything that happened last year and… even from the entire life of the club."
The comments were surprising, as Messi’s arrival in the U.S. was seen as a landmark move, raising hopes for Miami’s future in both MLS and the upcoming Club World Cup.
But with Martino admitting he can’t predict how long Messi will stay, fans are left wondering if their star player has plans to leave sooner than expected.
FIFA controversy raises doubts over Messi's Miami future
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Messi’s potential departure isn’t the only storm brewing around Inter Miami.
The team, which is currently led by former England captain David Beckham as a co-owner, has come under scrutiny for its unexpected inclusion in next summer’s FIFA Club World Cup, despite not winning the MLS Cup.
FIFA’s decision to include Inter Miami has angered other teams and fans across the league, with many claiming favouritism.
Messi’s future in Miami remains unclear, but his undeniable impact has already reshaped the team and the league.
The eight-time Ballon d’Or has enjoyed a sensational season with Miami, becoming one of two players from the same team to score 20 goals in the regular season, with Luis Suarez the other.
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