Lionel Messi, the iconic figure who has mesmerized and exerted immense influence over the global soccer stage for a generation, announced on Wednesday that his next destination in his illustrious playing career would be the United States.
🚨🚨 BREAKING: Lionel Messi to Inter Miami, here we go! The decision has been made and it will be announced by Leo in the next hours #InterMiami
🇺🇸 Messi will play in MLS next season. No more chances for Barcelona despite trying to make it happen.
𝐇𝐄𝐑𝐄 𝐖𝐄 𝐆𝐎#Messi #MLS pic.twitter.com/UYqemodrxk
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) June 7, 2023
Lionel Messi To Inter Miami
During an interview with two Spanish sports news outlets, Messi confirmed his intention to sign a contract with Inter Miami, an M.L.S. team co-owned by David Beckham. Messi declined the opportunity despite being offered a chance to play in Saudi Arabia, where he is financially supported for promoting tourism and the kingdom’s national league aspirations.
“I have made the decision to go to Miami,” Messi stated to Sport and Mundo Deportivo. “Although it is not yet completely finalized, there are still some details to sort out. However, we have chosen to continue on this path.”
In a statement, the M.L.S. acknowledged Lionel Messi’s decision, expressing anticipation and excitement for the arrival of one of the greatest soccer players in history to their league. However, the league clarified that no deal had been finalized at the time. Interestingly, the league’s social media channels adopted a more definitive tone, with the official M.L.S. account boldly declaring Messi’s imminent arrival.
Why Did The Argentine Goat Choose To Go With Inter Miami Over Barcelona?
“I really wanted to return to Barça; I had that dream,” Messi said, per Fabrizio Romano. “But after what happened two years ago, I did not want to be in the same situation again, leaving my future in the hands of someone else… I wanted to take my own decision, thinking of me and my family.
“I heard reports of La Liga giving the green light, but the truth is that many, really many things were still missing in order to make my return to Barça happen,” Messi continued. “I didn’t want to be responsible for them to sell players or reduce salaries. I was tired.”
The Former PSG star is widely recognized as one of the finest soccer players globally and had various options for choosing his next club. Although returning to Barcelona seemed like a potential outcome, Messi ultimately decided to embrace change. Additionally, there were rumours linking him to a move to Saudi Arabia, but ultimately he opted for the opportunity to compete in the MLS by joining Inter Miami.
Initially, when news of Messi joining Inter Miami surfaced, fans harboured scepticism until the official confirmation was made. However, Messi restated all doubts by recently confirming his move to the club, solidifying his decision.
