Argentinian superstar Lionel Messi arrived in Florida on Tuesday, going to US Major League Soccer club Inter Miami from Paris St Germain to finalize his move.
Television footage captured Messi, accompanied by his family, disembarking from a private jet at a small executive airport near Inter Miami’s stadium in Fort Lauderdale.
Reports suggest that Messi is set to sign a two-and-a-half-year contract worth $60 million per year. He will be formally presented to fans during a stadium event on Sunday.
Despite his departure from Paris St Germain, the 36-year-old Messi expressed no regrets about joining Inter Miami, stating in an interview with Argentine television that he is content with the decision and ready to embrace this new challenge.
In his own words, Messi affirmed, “I’m happy with the decision we made. I’m ready and eager to face the new challenge. My mentality and my approach will remain unchanged. Wherever I am, I will strive to give my utmost for myself and the club, and continue performing at the highest level.”
Messi’s arrival at Inter Miami marks a significant milestone for Major League Soccer, as he is the most prominent player ever to join the league since Brazilian legend Pele signed for the New York Cosmos in 1975.
MLS is hopeful that Messi’s presence will elevate the league’s profile and drive increased subscriptions for their streaming broadcast partnership with Apple TV. Ticket prices for matches involving Messi have already soared due to the anticipation surrounding his arrival.
Fans gathered at the DRV PNK stadium early in the morning, eagerly awaiting Messi’s expected arrival. The club is preparing a special event to commemorate the presentation of the seven-time Ballon d’Or winner at the stadium.
According to the club’s statement, supporters can look forward to an exciting evening of entertainment, on-pitch speeches, and more. Season ticket holders will be granted free admission to the event.
Once at Inter Miami, Messi will reunite with former Barcelona teammate Sergio Busquets and former Argentina coach Gerardo Martino. His debut for the club is anticipated to take place on July 21 in a Leagues Cup match against Mexican side Cruz Azul.
Inter Miami occupies the last position in the Eastern Conference standings of the 15-team MLS, having accumulated 18 points from 21 games.
Moreover, Messi’s arrival contributes to the growing excitement surrounding soccer in the lead-up to the 2026 World Cup, which the United States will co-host with Canada and Mexico.
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