Lionel Messi and Inter Miami bagged a 3-2 win against D.C. United in Major League Soccer on September 20 at Chase Stadium.
After providing an assist in Inter Miami's first goal, Messi went on to score a brace in the second half after being set up by Jordi Alba and Sergio Busquets, respectively.
Last month, Inter Miami suffered a 3-0 defeat against Seattle Sounders in the final of the Leagues Cup, leaving the MLS followed by the MLS Cup playoffs, as their only opportunity to claim some silverware this season.
The Herons are currently fifth in the MLS table with 52 points in 28 matches.
Along with Messi's, Busquets' current contract with Inter Miami is also set to expire at the end of the year, and the Spanish midfielder's next step with respect to his career has reportedly been revealed.
Back in August, Busquets addressed questions about his future without providing a certain answer, and told reporters,
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"As for the future, there's no news. When there is, it will be announced. When I left Barça, I already knew I wouldn't be going back to Spain or Europe. And, well, I'm also at an age where I'm closer to the end of my career than the beginning. But for now, there's nothing official, neither about a renewal nor about a possible retirement."
What's next for Inter Miami's Sergio Busquets?
A recent report by Cadena COPE's Nacho Garcia suggested that Busquets plans on hanging up his boots at the end of the 2025 season.
While no official announcement has been made so far, the 37-year-old star will retire in November or December, depending on Inter Miami's playoff run, according to the aforementioned report.
Busquets' retirement announcement is expected to be a video message, similar to the one when he parted ways with Barcelona in 2023. Reports have also suggested that he might return to the Catalan club in a different role following the end of his playing career.
Lionel Messi & Inter Miami news and related links
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- Messi drops hint on retirement as Ronaldo ‘final dance’ dream hangs
- Lionel Messi linked with surprise role in Barcelona’s 2026 elections