Lionel Messi’s Move to Inter Miami: A New Challenge on and off the Field

Lionel Messi Joins Inter Miami: A New Soccer Challenge in the United States

On June 7, Lionel Andrés Messi made a groundbreaking announcement, revealing his departure from Paris Saint-Germain to embark on a new sporting journey in the United States. Inter Miami will now be his new home, and the Major League Soccer (MLS) will present his latest soccer challenge. However, it is worth noting that the American league may not offer the same level of competitiveness that the Argentine genius is accustomed to.

The Economic and Business Aspects of Footballers’ “Golden Retirement”

In recent years, we have witnessed a recurring trend among footballers to retire in countries like the United States, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, China, and Japan. Iniesta and Xavi Hernández serve as prime examples of this emigration. However, it is an open secret that these “new stages” primarily serve economic and business purposes.

Andrés Iniesta, for instance, utilized his move to China as an opportunity to expand his wine brand, Bodegas Iniesta. According to reports from The World, he secured an 81 million euro contract with Albacete during his initial three years at Vissel Kobe.

Messi’s Business Ventures

Lionel Messi, the world champion Argentine star, has always been renowned for his footballing genius. This talent has not only earned him millions of euros but has also inspired him to diversify his income streams. He is a partner of Mim Hotels, a company managed by the Majestic Hotel Group. Additionally, he owns office buildings in Argentina, multiple properties, and has collaborated with Bodegas Bianchi to create his own wine label.

However, his arrival in the United States may mark one of his most significant investments, particularly in the real estate sector. Messi currently possesses properties in Barcelona, Ibiza, Rosario, and Miami, including two multimillion-dollar properties in the latter.

One of his most notable assets is an exclusive apartment in Miami Beach, valued at over seven million dollars. Interestingly, these properties have not only captivated Messi but also attracted the attention of Adidas and Apple.

Adidas and Apple: Capitalizing on the Messi Phenomenon

The German sports brand, Adidas, recently secured a 10-year sponsorship deal with American football, investing nearly 1 billion dollars to dominate the sector, much like Nike did with the NBA. Just as Jordan was the face of Nike, Messi represents the star power for Adidas. Furthermore, Adidas aims to solidify its market position leading up to the 2026 Canada-USA-Mexico World Cup.

On the other hand, technology giant Apple has acquired the exclusive audiovisual rights for the MLS, worth a staggering 2.5 billion dollars. Apple TV will broadcast the matches, and Apple+ has announced plans to produce a series titled “Messi and the World Cups.”

An Opportunity for Investment

Until a few years ago, soccer in North America was considered a second-tier league. However, it is currently experiencing a significant expansion phase, aiming to leverage its global image and recognition ahead of the 2026 World Cup.

With the arrival of Lionel Andrés Messi, along with other notable players like Gareth Bale, Ibrahimovic, and David Villa, the league’s reputation continues to soar. According to anonymous sources, David Beckham, the owner of Inter Miami, is even willing to offer Messi additional club shares based on his sporting and financial success.

Despite this, Beckham has somewhat remained in the shadows during the recent market movements. As the top shareholder of Inter Miami, he has gained the trust of the Argentine star, recognizing that Messi’s arrival represents an unprecedented economic boost for both the MLS and the club.

This financial phenomenon can only be compared to the impact Cristiano Ronaldo had on Al-Nassr and the Saudi Arabian league. The presentation of Messi’s arrival is being meticulously prepared, with journalists from around the world eagerly awaiting the unveiling of this new chapter in his illustrious career.