Inter Miami officially unveiled Lionel Messi one year ago marking an extraordinary moment in Major League Soccer history.
Messi’s signing and unveiling was a transcendent moment for Inter Miami and MLS. Signing the greatest player of all time seven months after capturing the World Cup brought new eyes and increased interest to the league. Even recently in MLS’ midseason attendance report, the league cited the ‘Lionel Messi Factor’ in key figures like a 13% increase in year-over-year attendance.
Relive the moment below.
The image of Messi holding up the now iconic pink Inter Miami shirt with his name and number on the back alongside David Beckham, Jorge and Jose Mas is one fans will never forget. The lights, the fireworks, the music, truly a special moment.
Five days later, Messi scored his first goal for Inter Miami against Cruz Azul in Leagues Cup. The free kick stoppage time winner was just the first moment of a legendary summer that ended with the team lifting the inaugural trophy. Messi not only lifted the Leagues Cup trophy with his new team, but also earned Top Scorer and Best Player honors.
A year later, Inter Miami is flying in MLS with its Barcelona quartet just one point off the top spot in the Eastern Conference. The team weathered the storm without Messi and Suarez as the two competed in Copa America, but now the team has to deal with Messi suffering an ankle injury in the international final.
Messi was substituted off with tears in his eyes, though he was all smiles during the trophy celebration. His ankle appeared to be heavily swollen and a specific diagnosis has yet to be given. It’s likely he’ll be out for an extended period including the 2024 MLS All-Star Game and some Leagues Cup ties, though an exact timetable hasn’t been given yet.
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