Inter Miami’s quest to bring Lionel Messi to the team wasn’t without its difficulties.
Before deciding to sign with the South Florida club in the summer, the Argentine was expected to re-sign with Barcelona.
The World Cup winner shocked the world when he announced his intentions to play in Major League Soccer.
In an interview with The Times, Miami Managing Owner Jorge Mas discussed the behind-the-scenes hardships regarding the midfielder’s move to the club: “It was very difficult to compete solely on an economic basis.”
Mas continued stating that he told Messi had the opportunity to be the face of the sport in the United States: “I said, ‘How many elite athletes have had the opportunity to change a sport in a country?”
“This is just the beginning. His presence, medium to long-term, will prove that this league belongs among the world’s best leagues over time.”
The 36-year-old officially signed with Inter Miami on July 15th to raucous fanfare.
Alongside fellow summer signings Sergio Busquets and Jordi Alba, Messi helped lead the club to its first title in team history with a Leagues Cup win in August.
2024 is shaping up to be another historic season for the men in pink.
Inter Miami’s 2024 plans
Inter Miami’s 2024 plans will be aggressive.
The Herons look to rectify the mistake of missing out on the playoffs.
According to team Sporting Director Chris Henderson, Miami intends to revamp the roster: “In 2024 we have high hopes and we will compete in multiple competitions.”
“We will work tirelessly to evaluate the changes that need to be made and achieve our goals in bringing success to our fans and Inter Miami.”
With rumors that striker Luis Suárez will join the team in January, Miami will only get stronger in 2024.
Although the 2023 season didn’t end the way Miami wanted, next year will bring new opportunities.