Renowned Argentinian footballer Lionel Messi has announced he will join Major League Soccer (MLS) team Inter Miami, leaving behind the possibility of a return to Barcelona or a lucrative contract in Saudi Arabia.
After spending the last two seasons with Paris Saint-Germain (PSG), Messi expressed his desire to find a new soccer experience in America.
The 35-year-old forward, a seven-time Ballon d’Or winner, ended his time at PSG and opted to move to Inter Miami as a free agent. Despite being linked with a possible Barcelona reunion, financial constraints facing the Spanish club prevented a viable return. Messi has revealed that he wants to leave Europe to avoid the intense spotlight and prioritize his family.
Acknowledging his successful World Cup win in Qatar, Messi expressed his eagerness to adapt to a different soccer environment in MLS and enjoy a more relaxed day-to-day life. He stressed his determination to perform well and win but with a renewed sense of composure.
Inter Miami, co-owned by former England footballer David Beckham, welcomed Messi’s decision, although a deal has yet to be finalised. MLS expressed their excitement that their league has one of the greatest players of all time.
Reports suggest that Messi’s desire for an ownership stake in the club, as well as his current endorsement with Adidas and MLS’ partnership with Apple, played a role in his decision. His move to Inter Miami is expected to increase viewership on the Apple TV streaming platform.
Despite the allure of a possible return to Barcelona and the financial prospects offered in Saudi Arabia, Messi opted for the sun-drenched city of Miami, where he has previously holidayed. Various sources indicate that key MLS sponsors, including Adidas and Apple TV, could contribute to the deal.
Inter Miami, however, currently faces challenges on the field. The team is currently at the bottom of the Eastern Conference standings, and coach Phil Newell was recently replaced by interim coach Javier Morales.
Messi’s departure from Barcelona in 2021 and PSG in 2023 marks a significant change in his career. While the circumstances surrounding his exit from Barcelona due to financial constraints were beyond his control, his departure from PSG was a personal decision prompted by the lack of a promising future plan and fan disquiet.
Official statement from FC Barcelona on Leo Messi's decision to play for Inter Miamihttps://t.co/iuliiDOxsY
— FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) June 7, 2023
Barcelona, Messi’s former club, expressed their best wishes for his future endeavors and confirmed that both Joan Laporta, the club’s president, and Jorge Messi, Lionel’s father and representative, will collaborate to organise a suitable tribute from Barcelona fans to honor their beloved footballer.
