Lionel Messi has officially announced his next destination in the world of football, confirming his move to MLS side Inter Miami. After leaving Paris Saint-Germain as a free agent at the conclusion of the 2022-23 season, Messi’s potential return to Barcelona fell through, signaling the end of his illustrious European football career.
Now, Messi is gearing up for an exciting chapter in his journey with Inter Miami, where he will face a series of intriguing tests. Without wasting any time, let’s delve into five key aspects you need to know about Messi’s latest challenge at Inter Miami.
5. Inter Miami Struggles: Currently Bottom of the MLS Eastern Conference
Inter Miami currently finds themselves at the bottom of the MLS Eastern Conference. With 15 points from 16 matches, they have a long way to go to secure a playoff spot. When Messi joins the team, his significant contributions will be essential in propelling Inter Miami towards a potential postseason berth.
4. Recent Managerial Change: Phil Neville’s Dismissal
Phil Neville, who led Inter Miami to the 2022 MLS Cup playoffs, was recently relieved of his managerial duties due to a poor start to the 2023 MLS season. Under Neville’s guidance, the team suffered ten defeats in their first fifteen matches.
3. Attendance Challenges: Fifth-Lowest Average Attendance in MLS
Inter Miami has the fifth-lowest average attendance in the MLS this season, with an average turnout of 16,687 spectators. The arrival of Messi is expected to be a significant draw, attracting fans from across the country who eagerly anticipate witnessing the seven-time Ballon d’Or winner in action.
2. Limited Stadium Capacity: Inter Miami’s DRV PNK Park
Inter Miami currently plays their home matches at DRV PNK Park, the smallest stadium in the MLS with a capacity of 18,000 seats. In comparison to Messi’s former club, Barcelona’s colossal Spotify Camp Nou, which accommodates 100,000 spectators, the difference is substantial.
However, Inter Miami has announced plans to build and relocate to a new stadium by the start of the 2025 MLS season, recognizing the need for expansion as Messi’s arrival is sure to amplify the demand for attendance.
1. Partnering with Josef Martinez: Former MLS MVP
Messi will have the opportunity to play alongside former MLS MVP Josef Martinez, who was Inter Miami’s marquee summer signing. Martinez has been a standout player in the league, earning three appearances in the MLS Best XI and claiming the MLS Golden Boot in 2018. While he has experienced a slower start to the current season, scoring three goals and providing one assist in 14 league appearances, the partnership between Messi and Martinez holds tremendous potential.
