Inter Miami’s preseason plans look set.
On December 15th, the club announced the fifth, and what could be, the final match in its 2024 preseason tour. The Herons will play Vissel Kobe in an exhibition match that will reunite the Barcelona trio with ex-teammate Andrés Iniesta on February 7th.
“Vissel Kobe is the former club of fútbol legend Andrés Iniesta,” Inter Miami said in the game’s press release.
“The iconic Spanish midfielder will be present at the event, where he will be reunited with his long-time teammates and fellow legends of the sport, Lionel Messi, Sergio Busquets, and Jordi Alba.”
Miami will participate in not only one but also several highly anticipated games.
Inter Miami tickets sold out in minutes
The South China Morning Post reported that Inter Miami’s friendly against the Hong Kong All-Stars on February 4th sold out in just one hour.
“Tickets for February’s football match between Lionel Messi’s club Inter Miami and the Hong Kong Team [HK League All-Stars] were listed online for up to HK$12,000 (US$1,537) a pair after selling out within an hour of being made available to the public,” the Post said.
This feat is impressive, considering that Miami is an American team.
Though they do have Messi on its roster, it’s uncommon to see Major League Soccer team travel such distances. Many Miami supporters are cautious about the travel miles. The Herons will be playing numerous games in three countries over two weeks. To avoid fatigue, Miami manager Tata Martino will likely rotate the squad to ensure adequate rest.
Furthermore, the potential additions of Luis Suárez and Julian Gressel will give Miami the depth and quality needed during the tough preseason schedule.
Ultimately, the demand to see Messi in person is high. It will take Inter Miami flying across the globe to appeal to placate the need.
All in all, if these preseason games help Miami gain full fitness, it will be worth it in the end.