Lionel Messi Confirms Move To Inter Miami, Joins MLS

Photo: Instagram/Lionel Messi

Argentine football superstar Lionel Messi has confirmed his decision to join Major League Soccer (MLS) club Inter Miami.

In an interview with Spanish outlets SPORT and Mundo Deportivo, Messi stated, "I made the decision that I am going to Miami. I still haven't closed it one hundred percent. I'm missing some things but we decided to continue my journey there." 

This move comes after months of speculation about his future, including rumors of a lucrative deal in the Middle East or a return to Barcelona.

Photo: Instagram/Lionel Messi

By choosing Inter Miami, Messi follows in the footsteps of other top players who have made the move to MLS. The decision to join Inter Miami, owned by former footballer David Beckham, is not entirely surprising considering Beckham's admiration for Messi.

In 2019, Beckham hinted at the possibility, saying, "You never know what can happen in football." While MLS has acknowledged Messi's intention to join the league, a formal agreement has yet to be finalized.

Nonetheless, the league expressed its enthusiasm, stating, "We look forward to welcoming one of the greatest soccer players of all time to our League." Messi's departure from Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) sparked speculation about his next destination. 

Reports suggested that he had rejected an offer from Saudi Arabian side Al-Hilal. After leaving Barcelona in 2021 due to financial issues at the club, exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic, Messi joined PSG, where he won two Ligue 1 titles. 

However, his time at the club ended on a sour note following his suspension for an unauthorized trip abroad. Despite the domestic success, PSG failed to secure the coveted UEFA Champions League trophy.

Laporta, the president of Barcelona, expressed his understanding and respect for Messi's decision to seek a league with fewer demands and less pressure. The statement from Barcelona also emphasized their intention to work with Messi and his father to organize a tribute from the club's fans to honor the beloved player.

With his move to Inter Miami, Messi embarks on a new chapter in his illustrious career while continuing to play the sport he loves.

Read Next: LeBron James Considers Kyrie Irving's Invitation To Join Dallas Mavericks, Sources Reveal

Source: CNN

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