After losing badly against PSG 4–0 in the Round of 16 on June 29, 2025, Inter Miami was eliminated from the FIFA Club World Cup. PSG– the European Champions advanced to the quarterfinals with a landslide thanks to goals from João Neves (2), Tomás Avilés’ own goal, and Achraf Hakimi.
Messi has lost for the first time in the Club World Cup’s history, ending a 16-year losing streak.
Many supporters believe the Argentina captain has suffered an inflicted defeat, and they are calling on Messi to “leave Inter Miami” because his colleagues did not stand by him.
Head coach Javier Mascherano, however, was pleased with the team’s performance thus far, as they defeated Porto and Palmeiras to go to the knockout stages. Despite their defeat against PSG, he sees the competition as a worthwhile experience.
Despite being 38 years old, Messi continues to be a big attraction, drawing large crowds to stadiums to see him play.
Here’s what fans and media are saying about Messi’s 4–0 defeat to his former club PSG in the Club World Cup last-16:
Fans & Media Reactions on X/Twitter:
“Messi, we are coming for you” — a bullish warning from PSG supporters.
“Please show mercy to the GOAT Messi” — a sarcastic twist expressing both reverence and aggression.
“We are going to humiliate Messi… destroy you and your team 5-0.” Strong expectations of a statement win.
Meanwhile, French reports highlight PSG’s dominance as a generational clash, with Messi appearing physically and tactically outmatched.
Stats show Miami had just 25 passes in PSG’s half vs PSG’s 257, underscoring the gulf in quality.
Fans On Reddit:
“PSG exposed him and his career so bad.”
“Messi ruined Psg wtf… team doesn’t need to cater to an individual’s needs.”
PSG supporters saw this match as emotional payback for Messi’s lukewarm stay at Parc des Princes — and about reasserting “European supremacy.”
Media commentary emphasized the tactical mismatch and physical edge PSG displayed, framing Messi’s quest for revenge as unmet and overwhelming.
Social media is split: some fans ridicule Messi for “failing to adapt,” others still defend him as the GOAT or highlight how he revitalized PSG’s profile.
This latest defeat only adds fuel to that debate, with PSG fans seeing redemption and Messi defenders attributing it to systems and age.
Messi has changed Inter Miami since joining in 2023, drawing elite teammates, raising his profile internationally, and earning the title of most impactful MLS player of all time.
With $20.45 million in 2025, Messi surpassed the aggregate salary of 21 MLS teams to become the highest-paid player in the league.
According to reports, Inter Miami is looking into extending his contract in order to keep him, while Saudi club Al Hilal is reportedly courting him.
Messi won MLS Player of the Month in May after recording 10 goals and six assists in 13 MLS games this season.
Additionally, he achieved a significant milestone by using a free kick to score his 50th goal for Inter Miami over Porto during the Club World Cup group stage.
Despite the tough loss to PSG and criticism from some quarters, Messi and Inter Miami gained valuable experience and global visibility through the Club World Cup.
Messi continues to shine both on and off the pitch, leading the league in influence, performance, and pay. He’s also a hot target for potential suitors—though Miami seem keen to keep him.
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