The rumor mill has been churning and now it’s confirmed: Lionel Messi is coming.
According to recent reports, the sports legend has opted to continue his soccer career with Inter Miami. He’s off to MLS for what’s next.
Guillem Balague is a very well-informed journalist, author of a biography on Lionel Messi. https://t.co/HlRknaZ5hl
– Alexandre Pratt (@alexandrepratt) June 7, 2023
The player, who was recently with PSG, brings a big wave of credibility to MLS. After all, to see a player like him land in North America is really big news.
He’s going to get the crowds going.
It’s worth noting that Montreal CF won’t be hosting Messi’s club between now and the end of the season, but imagine if that were to be the case in the playoffs or in 2024. There’d be a frenzy of excitement.
And with good reason.
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Of course, you have to wonder how the winner of the Ballon d’Or at the last World Cup could have been convinced to make the leap to MLS instead of staying in Europe.
And clearly, it’s because MLS rolled out the red carpet for the legendary player.
MLS has put together an “unprecedented” deal to lure Messi to Inter Miami.
He’s reportedly set to earn a share of Apple’s revenue generated by the MLS Season Pass – and a share of Adidas profits resulting from his arrival. pic.twitter.com/pWaVdD7SXG
– Front Office Sports (@FOS) June 7, 2023
It’s clearly a great job for MLS to attract a face like him at the expense of seeing him sign somewhere where there’s more money to be made, like Saudi Arabia, for example.
But since he’ll get a share of the revenue generated by Apple’s season pass and Adidas will pay him a share of the profits linked to his arrival, it’s understandable that they’ve found a way to make him money.
This is good news for soccer here. MLS is growing fast, and to see a face like this land in Miami will benefit the whole league, we agree.
However, Gary Bettman, who sees the NHL being overtaken by soccer in the United States, must find it less amusing.
In a gaggle
– Speaking of soccer, Messi and Apple.
Apple TV has announced plans for a four-part docuseries on Lionel Messi.
The project includes producers from Free Solo and Welcome to Wrexham. pic.twitter.com/ACd9cupf2a
– Front Office Sports (@FOS) June 6, 2023
– The Joseph brothers would like to play together. [98.5 FM]
– It’ll be interesting to follow.
“I can conceive of a scenario in which Will Smith is available at No. 5” 👀 https://t.co/dapaB9VtjD
– TVA Sports (@TVASports) June 7, 2023
– Field hockey Canada: are teams protecting themselves?[BPM Sports]
– Happy retirement, Mario.
I’d like to take this time to thank the public and my friends and colleagues for the outpouring of love I’ve received since Monday. Please know that I am deeply moved by all your messages. I’m going to enjoy retirement now. I wish you health and happiness. Thank you ❤️
– Mario Tremblay (@bionique14) June 7, 2023