Lionel Messi to Face Former Club Newell’s Old Boys in Friendly Match

Argentine football superstar Lionel Messi is set to play against his former club, Newell’s Old Boys, in a friendly match confirmed by Inter Miami. The match is scheduled for 15 February.

A Homecoming for Messi

Messi, who spent six years in the youth system at Newell’s Old Boys, holds a special connection to the club. He scored an impressive 234 goals and was part of the renowned ‘The Machine of ’87’ youth team, named after the year they were born. In 2000, Messi joined Barcelona, but his love for Newell’s Old Boys remains strong.

A Special Match for Inter Miami Boss Gerardo “Tata” Martino

Inter Miami boss Gerardo “Tata” Martino also has a deep bond with Newell’s Old Boys. As their club record appearance holder with 505 appearances, Martino spent the majority of his playing career at the club. He even managed them during the 2012-13 campaign. Martino expressed his excitement about the upcoming match, stating, “I am delighted to welcome my beloved Newell’s to our home here in Miami. It will be a special match due to everything Newell’s Old Boys means to me. It will also be a good opportunity to prepare for what will surely be an exciting season.”

The Venue and Ticket Details

The friendly match between Inter Miami and Newell’s Old Boys will take place at Inter Miami’s home DRV PNK stadium in Fort Lauderdale on 15 February. Tickets for the match will go on sale on December 19 at 10 AM ET, with priority given to season members.

Inter Miami’s Preseason Preparation

Inter Miami’s chief soccer officer and sporting director, Chris Henderson, expressed his enthusiasm for the match, stating, “We’re very pleased to be able to play this exciting preseason match at home in front of our fans at DRV PNK Stadium. This match against Newell’s is a great addition to a set of matches that will put us in the best position possible to compete in 2024. We’re excited for what is ahead.”