Lionel Messi could be set for a swift return to Argentina.

Messi played his final international game for his country last month, scoring his 126th goal on his 208th appearance as Argentina beat Benin 3-0 on an emotional night in Buenos Aires.

But it now seems likely he will be back in January as part of Inter Miami’s pre-season programme. Miami are being heavily tipped to take on River Plate at the Estadio Monumental in January.

Herons boss Kily Gonzalez, himself an Argentine, confirmed the news following Miami’s regular-season-ending 3-3 draw with FC Charlotte. He said: “For me, that situation is almost confirmed. It’s a very strong possibility. Obviously, it is always good to compete against Argentine teams, like River in this case. Although there is still a long way to go to get to that moment.”

Messi yet to play club game in Argentina

Messi has never played a club game in his homeland after leaving Argentina as a boy to live in Barcelona.

Assuming the fixture against River is confirmed, it will likely take place in the second half of January with Miami preparing for the truncated 2027 MLS season that runs from February to May.

Messi ended the 2026 season as the winner of the MLS Golden Boot for the second successive year. The 39-year-old scored 26 goals and added 17 assists to finish well ahead of FC Dallas striker Petar Musa (22) and Sam Surridge of Nashville (21).

The Floridian club now head into the play-offs where they will play Columbus Crew in round one. The defending champions will be wary of a Columbus side that won eight of their last nine games to secure their spot in the post-season.