Argentine football superstar Lionel Messi has arrived in Florida ahead of finalizing his move to US Major League Soccer club Inter Miami. The World Cup winner was seen disembarking from a private jet at a small airport next to Inter Miami’s stadium in Fort Lauderdale, accompanied by his family. Messi is expected to sign a two-and-a-half year contract worth $60 million per year, before being officially presented to fans at a stadium event on Sunday.
In an interview with an Argentine TV show called Llave a la eternidad, Messi expressed his excitement about the new challenge and assured fans that his mentality and dedication would remain unchanged. Acknowledging the high expectations, the 34-year-old pledged to give his best for himself, his new club, and continue performing at the highest level.
Messi’s move to MLS is a monumental moment in the league’s history, as he is considered the greatest player to ever join the competition. The last time a player of such caliber arrived in the United States was in 1975 when Brazilian legend Pele signed with the New York Cosmos. MLS hopes that Messi’s arrival will significantly boost the league’s profile and attract more viewers, ultimately benefiting their streaming broadcast deal with Apple TV. Ticket prices for matches involving Messi have already soared, showcasing the immense anticipation surrounding his presence.
Furthermore, Messi’s arrival adds momentum to soccer’s growth in the United States, coinciding with the upcoming 2026 World Cup, which will be co-hosted by the US, Canada, and Mexico. It is expected that the Argentine superstar will be joined at Inter Miami by former Barcelona teammate Sergio Busquets, a Spanish midfielder. Additionally, Gerardo Tata Martino, the former coach of the Argentine national team and Barcelona, has recently taken charge of the club, further solidifying the team’s credentials.
In keeping with journalistic integrity, it is essential to present a balanced view of the topic, including various perspectives and opinions where relevant. This ensures that the article provides value to readers and meets the necessary standards of quality news content. By adhering to the guidelines and focusing on the given points, this article delivers accurate information and captures the significance of Lionel Messi’s move to Inter Miami, while also considering its potential impact on the MLS and US soccer as a whole.
