The news of Lionel Messi's arrival at the MLS's Inter Miami has caused a huge stir in the world of football. After his departure from PSG, the Argentine superstar has decided to embark on a new adventure in American soccer, specifically in the city of Miami. But what was the plan that led Messi to make this decision and what impact will it have on US soccer, particularly in Florida?
The Athletic revealed details of the strategic plan that was formulated to secure Messi's incorporation into Inter Miami.
Two allied companies, Apple TV+ and Adidas, played a fundamental role in this process. Apple TV+ offered Messi a share of the revenue generated by new subscribers to the MLS Season Pass, the league's streaming package on the Apple streaming platform. Both parties agreed that Messi's presence in the league would be a true blessing, especially considering that the Argentine is the captain of the Argentine national team, the recent world champion in Qatar.
It is worth noting that Apple and MLS recently signed a 10-year, $2.5 billion agreement. Additionally, Apple will release a four-episode documentary series showcasing Messi's five World Cup appearances. This production will be exclusively streamed on Apple TV+, further solidifying the relationship between Apple and soccer in the United States.
On the other hand, Adidas, a brand that has been dressing Messi since before he became a global sensation, also joined the project. A brand that loves Argentina and, of course, loves Messi.
The German company, a corporate sponsor of the MLS, offered Messi a profit-sharing agreement in conjunction with the brand. This means that the player will receive a portion of any increase in the brand's profits as a result of his involvement in the league. Adidas has been associated with Major League Soccer since its inception in 1996 and recently renewed its contract until 2030 for a sum close to $830 million.
In terms of the football aspect, Inter Miami has set its sights on Gerardo "Tata" Martino as the team's next coach. Martino, who shared spaces with Messi in the Argentine national team and at FC Barcelona, could be another attraction for the player. The fact that Martino has expressed his fondness for the MLS and his interest in returning to the league could be a determining factor in a possible reunion with Messi at Inter Miami.
Messi's arrival at Inter Miami will not only impact the sports sphere but also the development of soccer in the United States and Florida. The American soccer project has strongly bet on Messi's signing, seeking to leverage his popularity and talent to drive the growth of the sport in the country. With events like the 2024 Copa America, which will feature the participation of Concacaf's national teams, and the 2026 World Cup, where the United States will co-host with Canada and Mexico, it is expected that Messi's presence in the MLS and Inter Miami will attract even more attention and interest from soccer fans across the country.
Messi's arrival at Inter Miami could also have a significant impact on the city of Miami. The addition of a star of his caliber will increase the visibility of the team and soccer in general in the region. Miami, known for its passion for sports and cultural diversity, will become a focal point for soccer fans from around the world who will want to witness Messi and Inter Miami's games in person.
Moreover, Messi's presence in Miami could attract other renowned and talented players, raising the level of the league and making MLS an attractive destination for international players. The combination of top-level players like Messi and the growing interest in soccer in the United States could drive the development and competitiveness of the sport in the country.
As we anticipated over eight months ago... check it out here: [link] Messi's arrival at Inter Miami is the result of a strategic plan involving companies like Apple TV+ and Adidas, aiming to capitalize on the popularity and talent of the Argentine footballer. This addition will not only impact the sports realm but also have effects on the development of soccer in the United States, especially in light of major events like the 2024 Copa America and the 2026 World Cup. For the city of Miami, Messi's arrival represents a unique opportunity to establish itself as a reference point in the world of soccer and attract more followers and high-quality players. The future of soccer in the United States looks promising, and Messi's arrival is a significant step along that path.
Of course, Miami + Messi is now Messiami.