Inter Miami’s Lionel Messi Opens Up On Future Plans And New Club With Luis Suárez

‎Inter Miami CF captain, Lionel Messi, stated that he doesn’t envision himself pursuing coaching, expressing interest in owning and developing his own club after his playing days are over.

‎”I don’t see myself as a coach,” Messi said in an interview with Luzu TV, an Argentine streaming channel, that aired Tuesday.

‎”I like the idea of being a manager, but I’d prefer to be an owner. I’d like to have my own club, start from the bottom, and make it grow.

‎”To be able to give the kids the opportunity to develop and achieve something important. If I had to choose, that’s what would appeal to me most.”

‎Messi recently extended his contract with Inter Miami through the 2028 MLS season, ensuring he stays on the field for a few more years.

‎Meanwhile, he’s exploring ownership ventures, teaming up with longtime teammate Luis Suárez to launch Deportivo LSM, a club in Uruguay’s fourth division. The name honors Luis Suárez and Messi, and the organization lists 80 staff members and around 3,000 members.

‎”Deportivo LS is a family dream that began in 2018. We have grown a lot with more than 3,000 members,” Suárez said.

‎”I want to offer Uruguayan soccer, the place I love and where I grew up as a child, opportunities and tools for teenagers and children to grow.”

‎Suárez initially began the project before inviting Messi to participate.

‎”I’m proud and happy that you chose me, so I hope to contribute everything I can to continue growing and, above all, to be by your side in this,” Messi said in an announcement.

‎Messi also recently launched the Messi Cup, an under-16 youth tournament that featured eight academy teams from around the globe playing in Miami, in hopes of developing talent and competition.

‎River Plate captured the first Messi Cup title in December, defeating Atlético Madrid in the final.

‎Messi will remain focused on his role as a player for now, while Inter Miami, the defending MLS Cup champions, kick off the 2026 season on February 21, traveling to face LAFC.