Lionel Messi Reveals Retirement Plans, Says He Prefers Club Ownership Over Coaching

Football icon Lionel Messi has offered rare insight into his post-playing future, revealing that while retirement is approaching, coaching is not part of his plans. Instead, the Argentine great says he is more drawn to the idea of owning and building a football club.

Messi, who is currently contracted with Inter Miami until 2028, is widely expected to be nearing the final phase of his playing career. At 38, the forward is yet to confirm whether he will feature in the FIFA World Cup 2026, which is likely to be his last international tournament with Argentina.

Speaking in a recent interview, Messi made it clear that the traditional path of moving into coaching does not appeal to him. He said he does not see himself as a coach, adding that while the role of a manager is interesting, owning a club and nurturing young talent from the grassroots excites him more.

“I like the idea of being a manager, but I’d prefer to be an owner. I’d love to start something from the bottom and help it grow, giving young players opportunities,” Messi said.

On the pitch, Messi continues to deliver at the highest level. He enjoyed a remarkable 2025 season in Major League Soccer, finishing as the league’s top scorer with 29 goals and 19 assists in 28 matches. He led Inter Miami to their first-ever MLS Cup title and was named both MLS Cup MVP and league MVP, becoming the first player to win the award in consecutive seasons.

Beyond Miami, Messi has also taken early steps toward football ownership. Reports suggest he holds a future minority ownership stake in Inter Miami and has supported the launch of Deportivo LSM, a lower-division club in Uruguay, alongside former teammate Luis Suárez. As Argentina prepare for the 2026 World Cup, Messi’s presence would be a major boost for the squad led by Lionel Scaloni, with many players having grown up idolising the legendary forward. Whether or not he features in the tournament, Messi’s comments suggest his influence on the sport will continue long after he hangs up his boots.