In a move that would be one of the most historic in the soccer’s transfer era, Lionel Messi is reportedly set to join Inter Miami as both an owner and player of the team when his contract with Paris Saint-Germain expires in 2023, according to Alex Candal of DIRECTV Sports.
The Argentinian is one of the greatest to ever play the game, racking up a record seven Ballon d'Or awards, six European Golden Shoes, four Champions League titles and 10 La Liga titles, among other achievements.
It's not unheard of for star international players to make the trip over to the United States to play there before the end of their careers, but Messi would certainly be the player of the biggest name recognition and fame to come play in the North American league.
🚨 Lionel Messi will acquire 35% of Inter Miami FC of the MLS and join the club in summer 2023, per @Alex_candalpic.twitter.com/2jbZJgnVbs
— Action Network (@ActionNetworkHQ) May 17, 2022
David Beckham, Zlatan Ibramhimovic, Thierry Henry, Wayne Rooney and Steven Gerrard are among the biggest names that have come to MLS, but Messi is simply a different level and would be arriving in a unique way.
Messi's plan is reportedly to sign on as an owner in addition to his playing duties, a move that would be rare but isn't unprecedented. Didier Drogba took this route when joining the Phoenix Rising of the United Soccer League, an American professional soccer league that’s below MLS in stature.
However, the all-time great would be the first player to take this path in the MLS. According to Candal, Messi is looking to acquire a 35% stake in the team, which would be worth more than $200 million.
