The 36-year-old left Paris St-Germain at the end of his contract when the 2022-2023 season came to a close. He says he is very excited about the new chapter of his professional career, playing stateside.
“I’m very excited to start this next step in my career with Inter Miami and in the United States,” said Messi.
Last year, he successfully led Argentina to FIFA World Cup success. This is the first time that the Argentine captain is signing with a team outside Europe.
Inter Miami co-owner David Beckham calls Messi’s signing a “dream come true”.
“10 years ago, when I started my journey to build a new team in Miami, I said that I dreamed of bringing the greatest players in the world to this amazing city,” said Beckham.
“[I wanted] players who shared the ambition I had when I joined LA Galaxy, to help grow football in the USA and to build a legacy for the next generation in this sport that we love so much.”
“Today that dream came true. I couldn’t be prouder that a player of Leo’s caliber is joining our club, but I am also delighted to welcome a good friend, an amazing person, and his beautiful family to join our Inter Miami community.”
“The next phase of our adventure starts here, and I can’t wait to see Leo take to the pitch.”
Messi will be available to play for Inter Miami starting July 21, which will be Inter Miami’s opening match against Cruz Azul for the Leagues Cup.
MLS Commissioner Don Garber also had this to say about the Messi deal:
“We are overjoyed that the greatest player in the world chose Inter Miami and Major League Soccer, and his decision is a testament to the momentum and energy behind our league and our sport in North America.”
“We have no doubt that Lionel will show the world that MLS can be a league of choice for the best players in the game. We look forward to seeing his debut for Inter Miami in our Leagues Cup tournament later this month.”