Miami– The next big name coming to the MLS is reigning World Cup champion Lionel Messi. The former Barcelona and PSG player signed a two-and-a-half-year deal for an additional year in 2026 with Inter Miami FC. The seven-time Ballon d’Or winner has drawn worldwide attention as the biggest signing in Major League Soccer history.
Why Inter Miami?
Messi finished his time at PSG by winning the league cup but did not make a far run into the prestigious Champions League. In an interview on Wednesday with Mundo Deportivo, Messi said, “After winning the World Cup and not being able to go to Barça, it was time to go to the American league to experience football differently and enjoy the day-to-day. Obviously, with the same responsibility and the same desire to want to win and to always do things well. But with more peace of mind.”
After cementing himself as possibly the best player by adding the World Cup to his trophy cabinet in December, Messi chose Miami to relieve pressure and enjoy the lifestyle.
Rumors are also circulating that his two former teammates and closest friends, Luis Suarez of Gremio and Sergio Busquets of Barcelona, could be joining him.
Messi’s Contract
The Argentine agreed to play for Miami over a return to Barcelona and a move to Saudi Arabia for a deal worth millions. With his salary, bonuses, and equity in the team, Messi is expected to make $125 to $150 million in his first two years.
This does not take into consideration any sponsorship deals from Adidas, whom Messi works with, and Apple TV, the service where the MLS games are broadcasted.
Unlike David Beckam and his move to Miami in 2007 from Real Madrid, nothing in Messi’s contract places him as an ambassador or owner of the club when his contract expires.
How Can Messi Help Miami?
Inter Miami currently sits in last place of the Eastern Conference standings out of 14 teams. However, they are six points away from a playoff position with over half the season remaining. Miami also advanced to the Semi Final of the Open Cup, a tournament between leagues in the United States. Messi is expected to be available to play in the Leagues Cup (another cup between teams in the United States and Mexico) in late July.
The question as to when he will make his debut remains unknown but Miami and the United States now have a player with all the headlines.
Share This Post On
0 comments
Leave a comment
You need to login to leave a comment. Log-in
