Stunning turn of events, football legend Lionel Messi has officially announced his decision to join Inter Miami CF, leaving the football world in awe. The seven-time Ballon d’Or winner has embraced a new challenge in Major League Soccer (MLS), spurning a staggering €1 billion offer from the Middle East in favour of David Beckham’s Inter Miami.
After much speculation surrounding his future, Messi confirmed the news in an exclusive statement to Mundo Deportivo: “I’m not going back to Barça; I’m going to Inter Miami.” This revelation comes as a blow to Barcelona, as their hopes of a homecoming deal for their greatest-ever player have been dashed.
Messi’s choice to join Inter Miami, a team currently positioned at the bottom of the MLS Eastern Conference, has caught many off guard. However, it signifies his eagerness to embark on a fresh chapter in his illustrious career, leaving Europe behind and seeking solace in the sunny city of Miami alongside his family.
Barcelona’s financial woes played a significant role in impeding any potential return for Messi. The club’s precarious financial situation rendered a deal impossible, leading the Argentine superstar to explore other options. While Saudi Arabian club Al-Hilal was also vying for his signature, Messi ultimately declined their lucrative offer and opted for the MLS adventure instead.
The move to Inter Miami not only represents a new challenge for Messi personally but also promises to invigorate the MLS and elevate the profile of Beckham’s club on the global football stage. Beckham, the owner of Inter Miami, humorously remarked, “My sons love Messi more than they love me, and they are huge fans of Argentina.” The arrival of Messi, widely regarded as the greatest player of his generation, is expected to generate a surge in ticket sales, merchandise revenue, and worldwide recognition for Inter Miami.
Messi’s contract with Inter Miami has yet to be disclosed, but it is believed to be a highly lucrative deal befitting his stature. Commercial partners Apple and Adidas have also played a crucial role in securing the signing. Apple’s MLS Season Pass on Apple TV+ is set to provide Messi with a share of revenue, while Adidas has offered a profit-sharing agreement to strengthen their long-term relationship.
Despite some Barcelona supporters clinging to the hope of a potential loan back to their beloved club during the MLS offseason, such a scenario now appears highly unlikely. The timing and circumstances have conspired against any dramatic return for Messi this summer.
As the football universe adjusts to this groundbreaking news, the focus shifts to Miami, where Lionel Messi will bring unparalleled magic to the MLS and write a new chapter in his already storied career.
