Lionel Messi, the world football legend and owner of 7 Golden Balls, is always the center of attention every time he makes a decision about his future career. In the summer of 2023, global fans were once again shocked when he left Europe, where he had achieved countless glories, to join Inter Miami - a club in the American Major League Soccer (MLS). This decision not only marked an important turning point in Messi's career but also created an unprecedented attraction for American football. So when did Messi join Inter Miami, and what does this journey mean to him as well as the entire tournament? Today, let's find out with Win Tips through the article below!
When did Messi join Inter Miami?
In July 2023, Lionel Messi officially joined Inter Miami, marking an important milestone in his illustrious career. After leaving Paris Saint-Germain, Messi considered many attractive options, from returning to Barcelona, where he had been attached for more than two decades, to moving to Saudi Arabia with energy. But in the end, Messi chose Inter Miami, a club in the American Major League Soccer (MLS). This decision not only surprised a rhythm but also opened up a new program full of prospects for him in a completely different playground.
Choosing Inter Miami is not only a strategic step in Messi's career but also a strong business for the development of football in North America. The presence of the 7-time Ballon d'Or player immediately increased the appeal of MLS globally. This is also the first time Messi has played outside of Europe since the beginning of his career, creating many expectations from experts on how to adapt and change the face of this tournament. The Inter Miami battle quickly attracted a record number of viewers, while also bringing interest to American football from major sponsors and international fans.
Messi shared that the Inter Miami unit was not only based on professional factors but also stemmed from the desire to bring a more comfortable life to his family in the United States. This was an opportunity to reduce the pressure after many years of playing at the top level in Europe and spend more time with his wife and children. At the same time, Messi could continue to contribute to football in a new environment, where he played the role of an MLS icon to take it to new heights. Messi's impact is expected to not stop at commercial equipment but also have a profound impact on the long-term development of football in the United States.
How much did Inter Miami pay for messi?
Lionel Messi, the Argentine football superstar, has officially become a member of the Inter Miami club with a contract worth 60 million USD per year. This is not only a symbol of the club's prestige but also includes commercial partnerships with Adidas and Apple, two strategies of MLS. Messi's move to Inter Miami marks an important step in the illustrious career of the player, who has won titles, including the Champions League with Barcelona and scored 672 goals in 778 club matches. Sharing his feelings, Messi said: "I am very excited to start a new program in the United States and to build an ambitious project with the team."
David Beckham, co-owner of Inter Miami, did not hide his happiness at bringing Messi to the team. Beckham said this is the culmination of the vision he has cherished since he started building the club in Miami. "I've always dreamed of bringing in the greatest players to develop football in the United States. Messi's presence will not only help the club grow but also inspire the younger generation of players," Beckham said. Beckham also highlighted his close relationship with Messi, considering it an important step for Inter Miami to assert its position on the international stage.
Messi's arrival is not only a success for Inter Miami but also has strategic significance for Major League Soccer (MLS). Don Garber, MLS manager, believes that Messi will be a catalyst for entertainment to attract more international stars and improve the quality of the game. "Messi is a testament to the growth of MLS, and an opportunity for the tournament to move further up the global football map," he said. In his debut match against Cruz Azul on July 21 at the Leagues Cup, Messi is expected to bring a new wave, not only creating commercial attraction from ticket sales and broadcasting rights but also helping MLS conquer fans all over the world.
How many games has Messi played for Inter Miami?
Lionel Messi has played a total of 22 games for Inter Miami as of November 2024, appearing in many important tournaments and making a strong impression with 21 goals. In particular, Messi shined at the 2023 Leagues Cup, where he led the team to the first title in the club's history. In total, Messi played 1755 minutes, creating memorable moments not only with his goals but also thanks to his leadership role and excellent ability to create goals. Messi's presence not only strengthened the squad but also raised Inter Miami's position in American and world football.
Despite his many positive contributions, Messi also encountered many difficulties when he only played 6 matches in the MLS. Injuries and a tight schedule with the Argentine national team forced him to miss many important periods. However, every time he appears on the field, Messi proves his superior class with the ability to read the game and score goals at decisive moments. In particular, his brilliant performances in the Leagues Cup have helped Inter Miami turn the situation around and win difficult matches.
Not only is Messi an important player on the field, he is also a role model that creates motivation and brings great commercial value to Inter Miami. His appearance attracts a large number of spectators to the stadium, increases revenue from ticket sales and sponsorship contracts. Moreover, Messi also helps MLS become a tournament that receives greater attention from the global public. Despite facing pressure from both the club and the national team, Messi still maintains his professionalism, showing a spirit of fighting with all his heart in every time he appears on the field.
Conclusion
Thus, with the question "when did Messi join Inter Miami?", July 2023 marks a new chapter in the colorful journey of the Argentine superstar. The decision to join Inter Miami not only brings a new breeze to MLS but also proves that Lionel Messi is always eager to conquer new challenges. His appearance in the US has contributed to changing the perception of football in this country and promises to open up many development opportunities for the tournament in the future. Thank you for following our article!