On July 15, 2023, Lionel Messi, the recently crowned champion of the world, announced his move from French club Paris Saint-Germain to the lowest ranked club in MLS: International Miami. The move to Miami shocked all as he turned down sums of money from Al-Hilal reportedly to be around $1.6 Billion US.
With Messi’s transfer he joins a number of large named players to switch clubs this year. Here are some of the biggest transfers in 2023:
- Lionel Messi (Argentina) – PSG -> Inter Miami
- Cristiano Ronaldo (Portugal) – Manchester Utd -> Al-Nassr
- Neymar Jr. (Brazil) – PSG -> Al-Hilal
- Karim Benzema (France) – Real Madrid -> Al-Ittihad
- Jude Bellingham (Germany)- Borussia Dortmund -> Real Madrid
Both called the G.O.A.T. (Greatest of All Time), Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo departed the biggest football continent in the world, Europe, this year. Both moves were equally as shocking and revolutionary.
Latin teacher Mr. Steve Prince says he has been a soccer fan for about 20 years.
“I think Messi followed the money so good for him,” Prince said.
With a measly $150 million deal compared to Saudi’s $1.6 billion, Messi was offered a part ownership of a future MLS expansion club as well as a percentage of revenue from Apple TV sales.
“I won’t be watching Messi as I am not a big fan of MLS,” Prince said.
Ticket sales have rocketed since Messi’s debut, with ticket sales selling for up to $110,000 for his first match.
Junior Bulldog player Ollie Dickman says he is an avid supporter of Messi and the MLS.
“I would like to say I base my play style on Messi and his work ethic,” Dickman said.
Lionel Messi has already made a historical presence for Inter Miami. In just seven matches with Miami, Messi is already third on the club’s highest goal scorers, with ten goals. Miami has also just won the “League’s Cup” all while still being ranked last in the MLS. With the Leagues Cup tournament win, Messi has now won the most major club trophies out of any professional football player in the world, after passing former Barcelona teammate Dani Alves. The world’s most decorated player could also grab a 44th trophy in the US Lamar Hunt Open Cup this year. Inter Miami is set to play FC Cincinnati for the spot in the final.
