Messi and Inter Miami plan to 'strip' Barcelona again

Following the retirements of Sergio Busquets and Jordi Alba, Inter Miami needs to strengthen their team, continuing to focus on players from Barcelona.

Right after winning the 2025 MLS championship, Inter Miami started making initial plans for the 2026 season. The Miami club does not want to lose the appeal and competitiveness they have built, especially after the golden era that began with Lionel Messi. Led by Javier Mascherano, the team understands that to maintain their ambitions and global influence, they need to add more big-name players.

One of Inter Miami’s top targets for the summer of 2026 is Barcelona’s Robert Lewandowski. The retirements of key players like Jordi Alba and Sergio Busquetsforce the club to seek new leaders. The management views signing a top-tier attacking star who can support Messi and elevate the team in crucial matches as a top priority. Lewandowski is seen as a perfect fit for this role.

Lewandowski’s contract with Barcelona expires in summer 2026, and the striker intends to become a free agent, which is very attractive to MLS. Inter Miami has already taken initial steps, knowing that moving early can provide an advantage over competitors.

At 37 years old, Lewandowski is entering the final stage of his European career. His contract situation at Barcelona has sparked much debate. Although his performance remains competitive, his role at the Catalan club has diminished as the team plans a medium-term offensive transition.

In Poland, media have started speculating about a major change in Lewandowski’s life and league, with the US emerging as an increasingly likely destination. Inter Miami is seen as an attractive choice not only professionally but also due to the lifestyle and media value.

Sources close to the matter reveal that logistical arrangements in Florida have been explored, reflecting the seriousness of this interest. Lewandowski is looking for a club that offers both competitiveness and a chance to enjoy the final phase of his career.

Inter Miami dreams of a historic attacking duo with Messi and Lewandowski. The club believes the combination of these two global football icons will have an immediate impact on and off the pitch, bringing trophies, global audiences, and strongly reinforcing the club’s brand. Even with players like Luis Suárez, Inter Miami looks to the future with a strategic vision.

Despite facing competition from Saudi Arabia and Europe, Inter Miami trusts in its appeal: a central role, stability, and the opportunity to write a brilliant final chapter alongside Lionel Messi.

The Polish striker has not yet made a final decision, but the interest is real and the scenario is gradually taking shape. Inter Miami is proceeding cautiously, believing 2026 could mark a new turning point in the club’s history.