The world of soccer witnessed a historic moment as Lionel Messi, fresh off his World Cup victory and a stint with Paris Saint-Germain, was officially unveiled as Inter Miami's newest star. The momentous occasion took place on a rainy Sunday night at Fort Lauderdale stadium, where the David Beckham-owned franchise presented Messi with his iconic pink No. 10 jersey.
Despite the downpour, the Argentinian legend addressed the enthusiastic crowd, expressing his excitement about joining the team and his anticipation of shared successes. "I'm certain we're going to create many unforgettable moments," Messi shared, touched by the warm welcome he and his family received.
Beckham acknowledged the fans' dedication for enduring the inclement weather, while co-owner Jorge Mas reflected on the club's vision, which always included attracting the world's best talent. "From the beginning, David and I dreamt of bringing not just elite players, but the absolute best," Mas stated, "And that's Lionel Messi."
Messi's arrival marks a significant turning point for Inter Miami, currently at the bottom of the Eastern Conference standings. The team faces a challenging climb to a playoff spot, a feat made even more daunting by their current point deficit. Former Manchester United star Wayne Rooney, speaking from his own MLS experience, cautioned against unrealistic expectations, emphasizing the league's competitive nature and demanding travel schedule.
However, for now, South Florida is reveling in the excitement of Messi's arrival. MLS Commissioner Don Garber hailed the signing as a testament to the league's growing prominence, emphasizing the significance of the world's greatest player choosing MLS as his next destination. Garber's words underscore the transformative impact of Messi's decision, positioning MLS as a league of choice for players, fans, and investors alike.
Messi's contract with Inter Miami extends through the 2025 season, and fans eagerly await his debut this Friday in a Leagues Cup match against Cruz Azul.
