Inter Miami unveil Messi to sold-out crowd

0 Comment(s)Print E-mail Xinhua, July 17, 2023
Adjust font size:

Lionel Messi has insisted that he remains hungry for success on the pitch as he begins his spell at Major League Soccer club Inter Miami.

Lionel Messi celebrates after scoring for Argentina during the Round of 16 match against Australia at the 2022 FIFA World Cup at Ahmad Bin Ali Stadium in Al Rayyan, Qatar, Dec. 3, 2022. (Xinhua/Han Yan)

The 36-year-old was officially unveiled to thousands of fans at the DRV PNK Stadium in Fort Lauderdale, Florida on Sunday night.

"I'm very moved to be here in Miami," Messi told the crowd. "I want to thank you for the kindness and love that you have given me. This has happened so fast."

Messi arrived in the United States last week after agreeing to an Inter Miami contract that runs until December 2025 with the option of another season. He will reportedly earn an annual salary of around 55 million U.S. dollars before tax.

The Argentina captain is expected to make his debut for Inter Miami in a Leagues Cup match against Mexico's Cruz Azul on Friday.

"I'm anxious to train and compete. Our objective is to be here and win. I'm sure we're going to have a wonderful experience," he said.

In June, Messi announced he was leaving Paris Saint-Germain to join the Florida outfit, which is partly owned by former England captain David Beckham.

The forward has since said that he is looking forward to enjoying the last stage of his career, having achieved his ultimate goal of winning the FIFA World Cup for Argentina in Qatar last December. 

Follow China.org.cn on Twitter and Facebook to join the conversation.
ChinaNews App Download
Print E-mail Bookmark and Share

Go to Forum >>0 Comment(s)

No comments.

Add your comments...

  • User Name Required
  • Your Comment
  • Enter the words you see:   
    Racist, abusive and off-topic comments may be removed by the moderator.
Send your storiesGet more from China.org.cnMobileRSSNewsletter