According to club managing owner Jorge Mas, argentine soccer superstar Lionel Messi is poised to make his highly anticipated debut for Inter Miami on July 21. This landmark event is expected to be a game-changer for soccer in the United States, with Messi's arrival heralding a new era of growth and excitement for the sport. In this article, we will delve into the details surrounding Messi's debut, the impact he is likely to have on the Major League Soccer (MLS) club, and the implications for the future of soccer in the United States.
The Journey to Inter Miami
After leading Argentina to World Cup glory, the previous year, Lionel Messi announced his decision to join Inter Miami, a Major League Soccer club based in Miami, Florida. In a statement to Spanish outlets SPORT and Mundo Deportivo, Messi expressed his excitement about embarking on a new chapter in his career and his eagerness to contribute to the growth of soccer in the United States.
A Seminal Moment for US Soccer
Jorge Mas, the owner of Inter Miami, believes that the signing of Lionel Messi represents a seminal moment in the history of soccer in the United States. Mas envisions Messi's arrival as a catalyst for transforming the sport and elevating the MLS to new heights. In an interview with the Miami Herald, Mas emphasized the magnitude of this announcement and the profound impact it will have on the league and the football ecosystem in the United States.
"I think there will always be a before and after Messi when we talk about the sport in the United States. I have a very, very strong-held belief that we can create in North America and the United States if not the greatest league, one of the top two leagues in the world," Mas stated. He further emphasized the responsibility of himself and other team owners to seize this moment and capitalize on the arrival of the world's greatest player.
Enhanced Security Measures
Given Messi's status as a global icon, Inter Miami and the team's management are taking stringent security measures to ensure the safety of the Argentine superstar and the entire team. Mas revealed that enhanced security protocols, including dedicated transportation and secure facilities, have been put in place to protect Messi and his teammates. These measures will be implemented during matches and as part of their daily routine to provide a safe environment for the team.
Social Media Frenzy and Ticket Surge
Even before Messi set foot on the pitch for Inter Miami, the club witnessed a significant boost in social media followers and a surge in ticket prices. Fans from across the league are eagerly awaiting the opportunity to watch Messi play against their teams with his new club. Following the news of Messi's pending move, ticket prices for Inter Miami matches skyrocketed by more than 1,000%, according to the resale website Tick Pick. This unprecedented demand reflects the excitement and anticipation surrounding Messi's first visit to play in the United States.
Messi's Contract: A Closer Look
While the details of Messi's contract with Inter Miami have been closely guarded, certain aspects have been revealed to the public. According to a document obtained by The New York Times, Messi is obligated to fulfill various responsibilities as part of his agreement with the Saudi Arabian tourism authority. These obligations include promoting Saudi Arabia, participating in tourism campaigns, and undertaking charitable work and appearances.
The contract stipulates that Messi is entitled to an annual family vacation in Saudi Arabia lasting five days, or alternatively, two vacations of three days each. The Saudi government is responsible for covering the travel expenses and providing five-star accommodations for Messi, along with up to 20 family members and friends. Additionally, Messi is required to promote Saudi Arabia on his social media accounts at least ten times a year, separate from the promotion of his vacations to the kingdom. For his participation in an annual tourism campaign, Messi receives an additional sum of $2 million. Furthermore, he is compensated with another $2 million for engaging in charitable work and making appearances.
Messi's Endorsement of Saudi Arabia
Lionel Messi's association with Saudi Arabia dates back to his promotional visits to the country and his use of social media to endorse the kingdom. The terms outlined in the contract align with the manner in which Messi has previously promoted Saudi Arabia. The document obtained by The New York Times, dated January 1, 2021, was signed by Messi and his brother Rodrigo, who serves as his business manager. However, it is worth noting that Saudi officials do not sign the contract, leaving some uncertainty about its current validity.
The Vision of Saudi Arabia and Messi's Belief in It
Rayco Garcia Cabrera, a former soccer player who facilitated the meeting between Messi's management and Saudi officials, spoke about Messi's endorsement of Saudi Arabia. While the financial value of the deal is considered relatively small in comparison to the salaries earned by other soccer stars, Cabrera emphasized the significance of Messi's decision to align himself with the vision of Saudi Arabia. According to Cabrera, Messi's belief in Saudi Arabia and its potential played a crucial role in his decision to become a tourism spokesman for the country.
Conclusion: A New Era for US Soccer
Lionel Messi's debut for Inter Miami marks a significant turning point for soccer in the United States. His arrival signifies the ambition and potential of the MLS to become one of the top leagues globally. The impact of Messi's presence on and off the field is expected to be transformative, attracting more fans, elevating the profile of the league, and inspiring a new generation of soccer players in the United States. As Messi takes his first steps onto the pitch for Inter Miami, soccer enthusiasts eagerly await the unfolding of this historic moment and the future it holds for US soccer.
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