Lionel Messi is set for a reunion with his childhood club, Newell’s Old Boys as Inter Miami adds another pre-season friendly to their schedule. Inter Miami recently confirmed a matchup against Messi’s former team, Newell’s Old Boys, scheduled for February 15, 2024 at the DRV PNK Stadium in Miami.
This encounter between the MLS club and the Rosario-based team, the hometown of Messi and manager Gerardo Martino, adds to Inter Miami’s international tour, which already includes fixtures against El Salvador, a Hong Kong Select XI, and Vissel Kobe.
Messi vs Ronaldo in ‘The Last Dance’:
Messi, record-eight-time Ballon d’Or winner, is also set to face his perennial rival Cristiano Ronaldo in what’s dubbed ‘The Last Dance’ during Inter Miami’s clashes against Al-Nassr and Al-Hilal at the Riyadh Cup in Saudi Arabia.
The upcoming match against Newell’s on February 15 holds special significance as Messi will face the Argentine outfit that played a crucial role in his early career before his move to Barcelona in 2000 at the age of 13. Tata Martino, currently managing Inter Miami, will also encounter his former club, where he holds the record for most appearances and secured four titles with Newell’s.
While Messi has expressed a desire to conclude his career at Newell’s, he is currently 36 years old and committed to a contract with Inter Miami until 2025, with an option for a 12-month extension beyond that period.
The football icon aims for more major honors in 2024, building on his success with a Leagues Cup triumph shortly after joining Inter Miami, solidifying his status as the most decorated player of all time.