Lionel Messi Officially Joins Inter Miami in Major League Soccer
Inter Miami, the Major League Soccer (MLS) team founded and co-owned by David Beckham, finally unveiled its newest addition on Sunday night. Argentine football superstar Lionel Messi made his long-awaited entrance onto the stage at Inter Miami’s stadium, walking out from behind a curtain and embracing Beckham for a heartfelt hug. Messi, considered one of the greatest players of all time, expressed his excitement and gratitude to the crowd, acknowledging the warm reception he received despite the inclement weather.
The event, aptly named “The Unveil,” marked a significant milestone for Inter Miami. The team had been actively pursuing Messi for years, facing skepticism and doubt along the way. MLS Commissioner Don Garber himself admitted to initial doubts about the feasibility of the plan. However, the signing of Messi has proven to be a testament to the league’s growth and appeal, with the best player in the world choosing MLS as his new destination. Garber emphasized that this move reflects the league’s ambition to become a league of choice for players, fans, partners, and investors.
Messi’s arrival is a game-changer for Inter Miami, who desperately needs a boost. The team currently sits at the bottom of the MLS standings, enduring an 11-game winless streak. However, the introduction of Messi injects hope and excitement into the team and its supporters. Together with another high-profile signing, Sergio Busquets, Inter Miami aims to turn their fortunes around. Busquets, Messi’s former teammate at Barcelona, expressed his enthusiasm for this new opportunity.
Despite the challenges that lie ahead, there is no denying Messi’s greatness. As a World Cup champion and seven-time Ballon d’Or winner, Messi’s talent and goal-scoring abilities are unmatched. However, some believe that MLS will present its own set of challenges for the Argentine star. Former England and Manchester United player Wayne Rooney, now a coach for D.C. United, stated that the league’s travel demands and varying conditions in different cities can make it difficult for players. Nevertheless, Rooney recognizes the significance of Messi’s arrival for MLS and the sport’s growth in the United States.
Inter Miami’s commitment to Messi is evident in the contract terms. The club announced that Messi’s deal will span 2.5 seasons and pay him between $50 million and $60 million annually, making him one of the highest-paid players in the league. The total value of the contract, including undisclosed factors, is estimated to be between $125 million and $150 million. Garber described the journey to bring Messi to Miami as “epic” and expressed excitement for the future.
For Inter Miami, this moment is crucial in shaping the future of soccer in the United States. Team co-owner Jorge Mas sees it as an opportunity to change the football landscape in the country. The unveiling of Messi represents a pivotal moment, not only for the team but for the entire MLS. As Messi begins his new chapter with Inter Miami, fans eagerly anticipate the impact he will make, both on and off the field.
