As rumors swirl of Lionel Messi’s possible move to Inter Miami, the appointment of fellow Argentinian Javier Morales as interim head coach adds an interesting dimension to the situation.
Morales joins a growing contingent of Argentines at the club, including goalkeeping coach Sebastian Saja, Federico Higuain (Inter’s reserve team head coach) and assistant coach Cristian Raul Ledesma. While it may be coincidental, the timing of Morales’ appointment coincides with reports of Miami’s interest in Messi, who will soon be out of contract with Paris Saint-Germain. The club and Major League Soccer have not distanced themselves from the rumours, leaving room for speculation about Messi’s possible move to the South Florida team.
Signing Messi would require a significant investment, but Miami hopes the chance to end his career with a lucrative contract in the Spanish-speaking community will be enticing. However, Morales faces an uphill task in turning around Miami’s struggling season. Under former coach Phil Newell, the team suffered four straight losses, placing them at the bottom of the Eastern Conference and 27th out of the league’s 29 teams.
Amid the Messi rumors, there are other notable matches taking place in Major League Soccer. D.C. United, led by former Manchester United star Wayne Rooney, will face Miami, while a derby between Western Conference leaders Seattle and the Portland Timbers is also scheduled. Additionally, FC Cincinnati, who currently leads the Eastern Conference by eight points, will host the Chicago Fire.
As for Messi’s future, three possible destinations are being discussed. Despite Barcelona’s desire to bring him back, financial complications and economic challenges facing the club could hinder a reunion. Inter Miami, with an attractive package of part-ownership and sponsorship deals, could entice Messi to move to MLS. As an alternative, Saudi Arabian club Al Hilal have reportedly offered Messi a lucrative two-year contract worth more than €1 billion, but the potential threat to his legacy could influence his decision. .
As Paris Saint-Germain head coach Christophe Gaultier confirmed that Messi will not return for the 2023-24 season, speculation about his next move has intensified, with Barcelona, Inter Miami, and Al Hilal the top contenders. are emerging as
