Lionel Messi Joins Inter Miami
Lionel Messi is poised to join Inter Miami following his departure from the French champions Paris St-Germain.
Despite receiving a more financially rewarding offer from Saudi Arabian team Al-Hilal, the former Barcelona forward has opted for the Miami deal.
Notably, this agreement involves collaboration with prominent brands such as Adidas and Apple.
At the age of 35, Messi has been honored with the Ballon d’Or award as the world’s best player on seven occasions.
Anticipated to win the award once again later this year, his success in the World Cup further solidifies his standing.
This move to Inter Miami marks Messi’s first venture outside of Europe, signifying a significant milestone in his illustrious career.
Initially, Messi aimed to prolong his stay in Europe for another season.
However, with no satisfactory offers materializing, he faced a straightforward choice between Inter Miami and Al-Hilal.
While many believed he would favor a move to Saudi Arabia, where he would have joined forces with Cristiano Ronaldo and Karim Benzema, the allure of Major League Soccer (MLS) and its associated perks proved too enticing to resist.
This decision encompassed aspects such as lifestyle preferences and an opportunity to collaborate with renowned brands beyond the realm of football.
Furthermore, Messi’s existing ownership of a property in Miami, which he currently rents out, likely played a role in his decision.
Although he had expressed interest in returning to Barcelona this summer, the Financial Fair Play (FFP) restrictions imposed by La Liga for the upcoming season rendered any ambitious plans to bring him back unattainable.
While Messi experienced triumph on the domestic front during his tenure at Paris St-Germain, securing the Ligue 1 title in both seasons, his time in France was overshadowed by their exit from the Champions League in the round of 16.
With 32 goals in 75 games for the club, he concluded the season with an impressive tally of 16 goals and 16 assists in Ligue 1.
As Messi’s two-year contract draws to a close this summer, both parties have mutually agreed to part ways.
It is worth noting that the forward faced a two-week suspension in May due to an unauthorized trip to Saudi Arabia.
Although his legacy primarily stems from his remarkable achievements at Barcelona and his World Cup triumph with Argentina in December, financial difficulties at the Catalan club compelled him to bid farewell in 2021.
Throughout his tenure, Messi left an indelible mark as Barcelona’s all-time leading scorer with 672 goals, along with securing 10 La Liga titles, four Champions Leagues, and seven Spanish Cups.
Lionel Messi Joins Inter Miami
