Lionel Messi, widely regarded as one of the greatest to ever play the game, revealed on Wednesday his intention to join Inter Miami in the MLS. He opted for the United States over a romantic return to Barcelona or a massive payday in Saudi Arabia. This comes after two seasons at Paris Saint-Germain, where he played his farewell match on Saturday, having originally left Barcelona in 2021. Although Inter Miami and the MLS have officially announced the move via social media, the league clarified that the final details of the contract are still being wrapped up.
One of the most celebrated footballers in the world, Lionel Messi on Wednesday announced he will sign for Major League Soccer Side Inter Miami, choosing the United States as his next destination over a Barcelona reunion or blockbuster deal to play in Saudi Arabia. The Argentine star has spent the last two seasons at Paris Saint-Germain, playing his final game for the club on Saturday, after moving from Barcelona in 2021, where he spent the majority of his career. MLS and David Beckham’s Inter Miami confirmed the news on social media, although the American league noted that work remains to finalize a formal agreement.
The 35-year-old captain of the Argentine national team, a record-breaking eight-time Ballon d'Or winner, reached the pinnacle of his career by leading Argentina to World Cup victory in Qatar in late 2022. Following PSG's confirmation that the legendary forward was leaving, fans worldwide were on edge waiting to see where he would land. Ultimately, the lure of a nostalgic return to Spain and the massive financial incentives from Saudi Arabia were overlooked in favor of a new adventure in the MLS.
Speaking with the Spanish outlet Diario Sport, Messi shared that he has decided to move to Miami. While he admitted the deal isn't 100% finalized yet, the decision to move forward there is set. 'I've decided it's time to leave Europe,' Messi explained. He noted that after the euphoria of the World Cup and the realization that a return to Barca wasn't happening, he wanted to experience football from a different perspective in the MLS and enjoy a more relaxed daily routine.
Messi emphasized that while his competitive drive and desire to win remain unchanged, he is looking for a more peaceful environment. He explicitly stated that financial gain wasn't the driving force behind his choice; if money had been the priority, he would have accepted one of the many lucrative offers from Saudi Arabia or other regions.
Reflecting on his former club, Messi admitted he truly longed to return to Barcelona. However, the trauma of his previous departure left a lasting mark. He explained that he didn't want to endure that uncertainty again or be left waiting for someone else to decide his fate. In the end, he wanted to take full control of his future for the sake of himself and his family.