Lionel Messi has chosen that his next sports journey will take him to the United States, where he will play for Inter Miami. After Barcelona’s aspirations of a successful return were dashed, Major League Soccer welcomed him with open arms. The Argentine is expected to make his long-awaited debut on July 21st.
The seven-time Ballon d’Or winner is prepared to take his unique skill set to MLS after starring in Europe for Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain, earning several major awards along the way.
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Messi will team up with David Beckham in Florida, where the former Manchester United, Real Madrid, and England player is now a co-owner. Messi’s presence in America is generating quite a commotion, with interest from Barcelona and the Middle East being rebuffed in favour of travelling to DRV PNK Stadium.
Messi has spent the previous two seasons on PSG’s books, winning two Ligue 1 titles at Parc des Princes. The decision to not sign a new deal in Paris was made some time ago, leaving the 35-year-old to enter the free agency pool.
His contract in Paris is not slated to expire until June 30, so he has a few weeks remaining on it, with the South American legend preparing to take a family holiday at the end of a frantic 2022-23 season in which he won the World Cup. Messi, who signed a four-year contract with Inter Miami, is set to join his new club on July 5.
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This year’s MLS calendar has been altered, with regular season play likely to be halted following the matchday weekend of July 15-16. The 2023 Leagues Cup, an event combining MLS and Liga MX teams, will be introduced to the schedule at that moment.
Inter Miami will compete in Group South 3 against Cruz Azul and Atlanta United. If Messi is totally committed and deemed match fit, he might make his debut against Cruz Azul on July 21 at DRV PNK Stadium. Inter Miami will then face Atlanta four days later, with the League Cup knockout stages commencing on August 2.
With MLS activity expected to have halted by the time Messi arrives in the United States, Messi’s debut appearance in domestic competition will be slightly delayed. However, there is a good probability he will make his MLS debut against Charlotte FC on August 21.
Ticket prices for the Cruz Azul and Charlotte games are already skyrocketing, with everyone excited to see all-time great Messi as he prepares to begin a new chapter in his absolutely incredible career.
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