Lionel Messi’s Contract with Inter Miami and MLS in Final Stages of Legal Process
Lionel Messi’s highly anticipated contract with Inter Miami and Major League Soccer (MLS) is in the final stages of the legal process, according to a source with knowledge of the deal. The contract had not yet been signed as of early Friday, but it is expected to be finalized imminently.
The source, who spoke to The Athletic on the condition of anonymity, revealed that the team is planning to officially announce Messi’s signing in a press release ahead of an event on Sunday. During this event, Messi will be unveiled to fans at DRV PNK Stadium in Fort Lauderdale, Florida.
In preparation for the official announcement, Messi has already undergone a medical examination and participated in photo and video sessions with Inter Miami. However, the team could not be reached for comment at the time of writing.
Cameras have captured Messi’s movements in and around the Inter Miami training facility over the past couple of days. He has been spotted leaving dinner at a local restaurant and even shopping at a grocery store in the area. On July 11, Messi and his family were photographed getting off a private jet at Fort Lauderdale Executive Airport after returning from a vacation in the Bahamas.
Messi made the announcement on June 7 that he would continue his career in MLS with Inter Miami. This announcement came after his stint with Paris Saint-Germain but before he had agreed to terms with Inter Miami and MLS. Over the past month, both sides have been working on finalizing the deal, which includes additional clauses beyond the standard MLS player agreement.
One notable aspect of the contract is that Messi is expected to receive an equity share in Inter Miami once he finishes his playing career. Miami owner Jorge Mas has stated that he anticipates the total package to be worth around $50-60 million per year.
Fans can expect to see Messi make his debut for Inter Miami on July 21 in a Leagues Cup game against Liga MX side Cruz Azul. The anticipation and excitement surrounding his arrival in MLS have been immense, and his presence is expected to elevate the league’s profile significantly.
In addition to Messi, Inter Miami has also hinted at an agreement with his former Barcelona teammate, Sergio Busquets. Social media posts from the team suggest that Busquets may be joining Messi in Miami. Reports from Spanish media indicate that Busquets was seen at an airport in Madrid bidding farewell to staff from Athletic Bilbao before flying to Miami.
The potential partnership between Messi and Busquets adds another layer of excitement for Inter Miami fans, who are eagerly awaiting the official announcement.
In conclusion, Lionel Messi’s contract with Inter Miami and MLS is nearing completion, with the final stages of the legal process underway. The official announcement is expected to be made soon, and fans will have the opportunity to see Messi unveiled at an event on Sunday. With his arrival, MLS is set to witness a significant boost in its global appeal and recognition.