Introduction: In a surprising turn of events, Apple and Adidas have made history by acquiring the legendary football player Lionel Messi for Major League Soccer (MLS) club, Inter Miami. This unprecedented partnership between big tech and football raises questions about its potential impact on the sport. While many expected Messi to return to FC Barcelona or join a lucrative deal in Saudi Arabia, financial constraints and personal preferences led him to choose Miami, a city he already enjoys and where he owns the property. With Inter Miami partly owned by David Beckham, a global football icon, this move not only boosts the club but also serves as a major publicity coup for MLS, as they strive to establish themselves as a prominent force in US sports.
Messi’s Surprising Move: Contrary to expectations, Messi’s decision to cross the Atlantic and join Inter Miami took the football world by surprise. Speculation had suggested a reunion with Barcelona or a high-value deal in Saudi Arabia. However, Barcelona’s financial constraints ruled out a return, and Messi opted for Miami instead. The city’s lifestyle, combined with his existing connections and ownership of property, influenced his choice. The move also signifies a significant moment for MLS, as the league seeks to replicate the success of Beckham’s move to Los Angeles Galaxy in 2007. Reports suggest that MLS has enticed Messi with a revenue-sharing deal involving Adidas and Apple TV+, which broadcasts MLS matches in the US. Additionally, there are rumours that, like Beckham, Messi may have the opportunity to own an MLS team once he retires.
Inter Miami’s Situation: Messi joins Inter Miami during a challenging period for the club. Currently sitting at the bottom of MLS’s Eastern Conference, Inter Miami recently parted ways with manager Phil Neville. Moreover, the team lacks a permanent home stadium, playing at a temporary 18,000-capacity venue in Fort Lauderdale. In 2021, MLS disciplined the club for violating roster rules. However, the nature of MLS allows for rapid turnarounds, as it emphasizes parity among teams compared to the traditional power dynamics of European leagues. Inter Miami remains six points away from qualifying for the end-of-season playoffs, with a chance to secure their spot through an elimination game.
The Expired PSG Contract: Messi’s contract with Paris St-Germain is set to expire on June 30, and the club has confirmed that he will not sign a new deal to stay in France. This opens the door for his highly anticipated move to Inter Miami, where he will embark on the next chapter of his illustrious career.
Conclusion: Apple and Adidas have made a groundbreaking move by securing Lionel Messi’s services for Inter Miami in MLS. This unexpected partnership between technology and football has shaken up the sport and raised questions about its future implications. While Messi’s decision to join Miami surprised many, it represents an exciting opportunity for both him and the league. As Inter Miami navigates its challenges, the arrival of the football superstar brings hope and anticipation for a brighter future. This move reinforces MLS’s ambition to compete on a global scale and signals a potential shift in the power dynamics of football, as players like Messi, Ronaldo, and Benzema take control of their careers and wield influence beyond the clubs themselves. With Apple and Amazon’s growing interest in football, we may just be witnessing the beginning of a new era in the sport.