Lionel Messi is officially an Inter Miami player as the World Cup winner has signed a contract with the Major League Soccer (MLS) team.
The 36-year-old announced his intention to move to the United States on June 7, but after two seasons in the French capital, had to wait until his contract at Paris Saint-Germain expired on June 30.
He has now signed to formally begin his MLS tenure and leave Europe for the first time in his professional career. His arrival was confirmed via a social media video posted by Inter Miami on July 15.
Messi officially signs Inter Miami contract
Although everyone knew the destination of Messi’s next adventure, the announcement of his signing was still an important moment that cemented his decision to play in the USA for Inter Miami.
Jorge Mas, who is the co-owner of the MLS club, previously told Spanish Newspaper El Pais that Messi will earn between $50-$60 million (£39-£47 million) per year at the club.
Several reports indicated that league partners Adidas and Fanatics contributed to making the deal happen. ESPN reported that a cut of revenue from new subscribers to Apple TV’s MLS Season Pass will also go the Argentina international.
According to the Miami Herald, Messi’s contract will last for two-and-a-half years through the end of the 2025 MLS season with an option for another year (2026) also included after negotiations.
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