BREAKING: Inter Miami officially announce Lionel Messi signing
It's official.
Featured Image Credit: Inter Miami via Twitter
Topics: Football, Lionel Messi, Inter Miami
Chris Byfield
Topics: Football, Lionel Messi, Inter Miami
Inter Miami have finally confirmed the arrival of Lionel Messi who was a free agent after leaving Paris Saint-Germain.
The Argentina international's contract is for two-and-a-half seasons, with an option to extend by a further year in 2026.
Miami tweeted a video of Messi wearing the No 10 shirt, which can be viewed below.
The 36-year-old announced in June that he had opted to move to the MLS following his PSG exit, despite interest from former employers Barcelona and Saudi Pro League side Al Hilal.
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Inter Miami are scheduled to unveil the seven-time Ballon d'Or winner to their fans on Sunday at the DRV PNK Stadium in Fort Lauderdale.
Messi is expected to receive a rock-star-like reception when he is presented to his new club, with the Mail Online claiming former Barcelona stars Sergio Busquets and Jordi Alaba will also be presented in front of the fans as the club's new signings.
The spectacle, which has been labelled “The Unveil”, will allegedly include entertainment and on-pitch speeches. Indeed, the arena’s capacity will be expanded by 3,000 to help cope with demand.
Messi is then set to make his debut for the club on July 21 against Cruz Azul in The Leagues Cup.
Messi has put pen-to-paper on a complicated deal, which includes additions to the typical MLS standard player agreement.
Indeed, the forward is reportedly expected to get an equity share in Inter Miami when he finishes as a player, while Miami owner Jorge Mas has told reporters he expects the total package to be worth somewhere in the range of some $50-60million per year (£38-45million).
Upon the announcement, MLS Commissioner Don Garber said in a statement: "We are overjoyed that the greatest player in the world chose Inter Miami CF 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."
More to follow...