Argentina’s star striker Lionel Messi has signed a contract with North American Major League Soccer (MLS) club Inter Miami. The footballer said this in an interview published by Mundo Deportivo.
Why did Messi choose the US team?
Inter Miami’s ownership group includes former England captain David Beckham. Messi, who turns 36 in June, will play outside Europe for the first time in his career. He assures that money was not the main thing in the transition, and with Barcelona it didn’t even get to the point of discussing salary.
“I’m leaving Europe. To tell the truth, I had offers from other European clubs, but I didn’t even look closely at them. In Europe, I only wanted to go to Barcelona. After winning the World Cup and not being able to return to Barça, it’s time to go to MLS to live football differently and have fun every day. Obviously with the same responsibility and desire to win, but more calmly,” admitted Messi.
There were rumors that Messi could return to Barcelona or go to Saudi Arabia’s Al-Hilal. But he chose the US championship — it is weaker than the top European ones, but much more powerful than the league in Saudi Arabia. The season at PSG was not the best for Messi — it seems his age is taking its toll.
Messi will make good money in the USA. Do you know how he spent his first salary? You will be surprised!
What will be the terms of Messi’s contract?
Earlier, the media reported that Inter Miami offered Messi a contract worth a total of $200 million. At the same time, MLS clubs are ready to jointly pay the forward part of his salary if he continues his career in this tournament. After all, Messi’s arrival will benefit all teams — the attention of the whole world will be focused on the championship.
The Argentine is expected to take part in the advertising campaign for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which will be held in the USA, Canada and Mexico. Messi’s arrival is a reputational move before a big tournament. For this, according to The Athletic, he is entitled to unprecedented bonuses:
- Messi will receive a percentage of profits from new Apple+ subscribers who start watching MLS matches and content.
- Messi will begin to profit from the sale of some Adidas products.
- Messi will be able to buy any MLS team after his career ends.
If you are not a football fan and don’t understand why there is so much noise around the Argentinean, read our material. In it you will learn more about the history of the life and career of Lionel Messi!