The 35-year-old legend is set to join MLS in a landmark deal for the league.
The most sought-after free agent in soccer history, Lionel Messi, is about to sign with Inter Miami of Major League Soccer (MLS). Weeks of rumors regarding the Argentine star’s future end with this eagerly awaited decision. In a historically rare move, MLS was able to sign Messi, defeating rivals like Barcelona and even proposals from Saudi Arabia.
The Creative Pitch That Sealed the Deal
The Athletic reported on Tuesday that MLS presented a creative pitch to lure Messi to the league. The proposal included an enticing offer from Apple, which involved sharing revenue generated by new subscribers to the MLS Season Pass on Apple TV+. Additionally, Adidas, a long-standing partner of the MLS since its inception in 1996, offered a profit-sharing agreement. According to The Athletic, Messi has worked with the German sportswear giant since 2006, and their partnership culminated in a lifetime footwear agreement in 2017.
A New Chapter: Lionel Messi’s Departure from PSG
The 35-year-old superstar will officially leave Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) this month as his contract expires after two seasons with the French giants. After spending his entire career with Barcelona, Lionel Messi moved to France when his beloved team could no longer meet the financial demands imposed by La Liga’s regulations. This transition marked the end of an iconic era at the club, with Messi as the face of Barcelona, achieving unprecedented success.
Fresh off his triumphant victory in the World Cup with Argentina in December, which further solidified his legacy as one of the greatest players of all time, Lionel Messi now fulfills his long-cherished dream of playing in the United States. Furthermore, there is a possibility that some of his former Barcelona
A New Horizon: Exploring MLS and Future Prospects
While the level of competition in MLS may not match that of Europe, Messi sees an opportunity to contribute to the league’s growth. His contract is expected to include a clause granting him potential future club ownership, reminiscent of Beckham’s agreement 15 years ago. This visionary move demonstrates Messi’s commitment to playing and shaping soccer’s future in the United States.
In 2021, Messi purchased a home in the vibrant city of Miami, making it a frequent vacation spot for him and his family. This strategic decision aligns perfectly with upcoming major tournaments, namely the 2024 Copa America and the 2026 World Cup, where Messi could potentially represent the Argentina national team.
As further developments unfold, CBS Sports will continue to provide the latest updates on Lionel Messi’s monumental move to Inter Miami. This groundbreaking transfer promises to reshape the landscape of MLS while cementing Messi’s status as an icon in the league and the world of soccer.