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Free Lionel Messi Template – PowerPoint & Google Slides

About the Template

The world’s most favorite sports event – the FIFA world cup 2023, is going on. The fever for football is at its peak. With France & Argentina at the finals, football fans can’t wait to see their team win the trophy.

Messi fans are going crazy to see him raising the trophy and becoming the highest goal scorer in the world cup. In addition, Lionel Messi is the greater footballer today with the most officially recorded assists in football history (350).

Lionel Messi is a football legend and idol for many footballers. So, if you are a coach, a football enthusiast, or a die-hard fan of Messi, then get this Free Lionel Messi template . This Messi theme presentation template comprises of 10 creative slides, which give a glimpse of his career, life, family, awards, and much more.

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Lionel Messi

Lionel Messi, a forward for Inter Miami CF, is one of the world’s greatest soccer players and helped the Argentina national team win its third FIFA World Cup in 2022.

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1987-present

Lionel Messi News: Soccer Star Is the Subject of a New Apple TV+ Docuseries

Messi, now playing for Inter Miami CF of the MLS, helped his home country win soccer’s biggest event for the first time since 1986, scoring two goals in the final and leading Argentina to a 4-2 win over Kylian Mbappé and France on penalties. Argentina’s captain was also named the tournament MVP.

The new series follows up Messi Meets America , Apple’s 2023 look at the star striker’s arrival and first season in the MLS. Inter Miami begins the 2024 regular season also on February 21 with a match against Real Salt Lake.

Quick Facts

Early life of a soccer prodigy, club teams: barcelona, psg, and inter miami, argentina national team, tax fraud scandal, wife and children, charity and unicef, who is lionel messi.

Lionel Messi is an Argentinian soccer player who has played for FC Barcelona, Paris Saint-Germain, and currently, the MLS club Inter Miami CF as well as the Argentina national team. As a teenager, Messi moved from Argentina to Spain after FC Barcelona agreed to pay for medical treatments related to his growth hormone disorder. At the club, he earned renown as one of the greatest players in history, helping FC Barcelona win more than two dozen league titles and tournaments. In 2012, he set a record for most goals in a calendar year and, a decade later, helped the Argentina national team win its third FIFA World Cup. The eight-time Ballon d’Or winner moved to Paris Saint-Germain in 2021, and in July 2023, he joined Inter Miami.

FULL NAME: Luis Lionel Andres Messi BORN: June 24, 1987 BIRTHPLACE: Rosario, Argentina SPOUSE: Antonella Roccuzzo (2017-present) CHILDREN: Thiago, Mateo, and Ciro ASTROLOGICAL SIGN: Cancer

Luis Lionel Andres “Leo” Messi was born on June 24, 1987, in Rosario, Argentina. As a young boy, Messi tagged along when his two older brothers played soccer with their friends, unintimidated by the bigger boys. At the age of 8, he was recruited to join the youth system of Newell’s Old Boys, a Rosario-based club.

Recognizably smaller than most of the kids in his age group, Messi was eventually diagnosed by doctors as suffering from a hormone deficiency that restricted his growth. Messi’s parents, Jorge and Ceclia, decided on a regimen of nightly growth-hormone injections for their son, though it soon proved impossible to pay several hundred dollars per month for the medication.

So, at the age of 13, when Messi was offered the chance to train at soccer powerhouse FC Barcelona’s youth academy, La Masia, and have his medical bills covered by the team, Messi’s family picked up and moved across the Atlantic to make a new home in Spain. Although he was often homesick in his new country, Messi moved quickly through the junior system ranks.

Ultimately, Messi’s short stature—5 feet, 7 inches—combined with his speed and relentless attacking style, has drawn comparisons to another famous Argentinian footballer, Diego Maradona .

Messi played for FC Barcelona for 17 seasons before joining Paris Saint-Germain in 2021 for two seasons. In July 2023, he joined the MLS club Inter Miami.

FC Barcelona

At age 13, Messi signed with FC Barcelona. His first appearance for the team was when he was 16. On May 1, 2005, Messi put himself in the record books as the youngest player to ever score a goal for the franchise.

Messi steered Barcelona to a wealth of success, most notably in 2009, when the left-footer’s team captured the Champions League, La Liga, and Spanish Super Cup titles. That same year, after two consecutive runner-up finishes, he took home his first FIFA World Player of the Year honor, as well as his first Ballon d’Or award, the top European individual honor in football.

Messi became the first Argentinian player to win the Ballon d’Or. Even the great Maradona gushed about his fellow countryman. “I see him as very similar to me,” the retired player told the BBC. “He’s a leader and is offering lessons in beautiful football. He has something different than any other player in the world.”

Amazingly, the soccer wizard continued to improve, discovering new ways to elude defenders while leading Barcelona to La Liga and Spanish Super Cup championships in 2010 and 2011, as well as the ’11 Champions League title.

Messi embarked on an all-out assault on the record books in 2012. He became the first player to score five goals in a Champions League match in early March, and a few weeks later, he surpassed Cesar Rodriguez’s club-record 232 goals to become Barcelona’s all-time leading scorer. By the end of the year, Messi had accumulated an astounding 91 goals in club and international play, eclipsing the 85 netted in a single calendar year by Gerd Muller in 1972. Fittingly, he broke another record when he was named the Ballon d’Or winner for the fourth consecutive time.

In 2013, the soccer great came back to earth somewhat due to the persistence of hamstring injuries, but he regained his record-breaking form by becoming the all-time leading scorer in La Liga and Champions League play in late 2014.

After helping Barcelona achieve a historic second treble in 2015, he was honored with his fifth Ballon d’Or trophy. Four years later, following another La Liga title, Messi again established a new standard for excellence by claiming his sixth Ballon d’Or.

On August 5, 2021, FC Barcelona announced it couldn’t resign Messi due to the team’s budget constraints and La Liga restrictions. Despite having voiced his desire to leave the club the prior season, Messi bid a teary farewell after 17 seasons: “This is really difficult for me after so many years spent here, being here my entire life. I’m not ready for this.”

Paris Saint-Germain

Four days after the shocking news from FC Barcelona, Messi signed with Paris Saint-Germain. The 34-year-old inked a two-year contract with the French club. The move saw him reunite with former teammate Neymar as well as the talented Kylian Mbappé.

Messi made his debut for the club on August 29, 2021, and scored his first goal that September. PSG won two Ligue 1 titles with Messi but twice failed to advance beyond the round of 16 in the Champions League finals.

Although his contract allowed for an optional third year at PSG, the team announced it would release Messi as a free agent when the deal expired on June 30, 2023. Earlier in the year, the club suspended and fined Messi after he visited Saudi Arabia on an unauthorized trip. This all but sealed fate on the soccer legend’s widely expected move.

Messi’s last game for PSG was June 3, 2023. In total, he started in 72 games, notching 32 goals and 34 assists.

Inter Miami CF

On June 7, 2023, Messi told two Spanish media outlets he planned to play for the MLS club Inter Miami CF, which is partially owned by former soccer player David Beckham . “I have made the decision that I am going to Miami,” Messi said at the time, per ESPN . Messi later told Time he strongly considered joining a Saudi Arabian team before deciding on Inter Miami.

A little over a month later, on July 16, the team officially welcomed him on a 2.5-year contract that runs through the 2025 season. The deal was reportedly worth around $150 million , including an annual salary between $50 million and $60 million , a signing bonus, revenue sharing with the league’s media partner, and team equity upon retirement.

Inter Miami immediately benefitted on and off the field from their new team captain’s presence. The club went on a 12-match winning streak and captured the Leagues Cup, an annual tournament between teams from the MLS and Liga MX. Messi wound up scoring 11 goals in 14 games overall. However, with Messi injured late in the season, Inter Miami went winless in seven straight and failed to qualify for the playoffs. He was named the club’s 2023 MVP in November.

Messi has directly boosted revenue for the team, as well. Attendance at home games spiked 40 percent , the most in the MLS. According to The Athletic , the least expensive Inter Miami season ticket prices rose from $485 to $884 per seat from 2023 to 2024. Even with the price jump, Inter Miami announced 2024 season tickets sold out at the end of November, two months out of the start of the preseason. Not surprisingly, his jersey became the top seller in the MLS .

Messi and Inter Miami open the 2024 MLS regular season on February 21.

In summer 2005, Messi quickly made a name for himself on his native country’s under-20 squad. He led Argentina to the title in the FIFA U-20 World Cup, scoring on a pair of penalty kicks to propel the team over Nigeria. Less than two months later, he made his pro debut with Argentina in an August friendly match against Hungary but played less than two minutes before receiving a red card and being ejected from the game.

For all his success with Barcelona, Messi repeatedly came under fire for his inability to help Argentina’s national team win a major title. In the 2014 World Cup, Argentina lost to Germany in the final, though Messi was named player of the tournament that year. In 2016, following Argentina’s second consecutive loss to Chile in the final of the Copa America tournament, Messi announced he was ending his run with the national team.

The soccer great eventually reversed his decision, but his participation in the 2018 World Cup did not bring that elusive title, as hoped. After Messi scored an early goal in a 2-1 win over Nigeria that helped his team advance from the group stage, he was largely kept in check by France, his two assists not enough to stave off a 4-3 defeat that sent Argentina packing.

The following year, after Messi heavily criticized the referees in the wake of a 2-0 loss to Brazil in the Copa America semifinals, the Argentine captain was slapped with a three-game ban by the South American Football Confederation.

At last, in 2021 and 2022, Argentina and Messi found enough traction to bring home trophies that had long evaded them. First, the team won the Copa America—Argentina’s first major title in 28 years—in August 2021, besting Brazil in the final. Captain Messi tied for top goal scorer, alongside Colombia’s Luis Diaz, and was named player of the tournament. The next year, greater glory awaited at the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar.

Argentina captured the World Cup trophy on December 18, 2022, after a thrilling game against France that ended in a penalty shootout. Messi was named the Best FIFA Men’s Player for a second time and broke the record for most World Cup appearances with 26 games. Six jerseys that Messi had worn during the victorious championship run later sold for more than $7.8 million at auction.

In fall 2023, Messi scored three goals in qualifying games for the 2026 World Cup. However, as he nears the twilight of the his career, the soccer legend has adopted a realistic attitude about his future. “As long as I feel that I am fine and I can continue contributing, I am going to do it. Today, the only thing I think about is getting to the Copa America well and being able to compete in it,” Messi said of the 2024 tournament. “Then time will tell if I am [at the World Cup] or not. I’m going to be at an age (39) that normally doesn’t allow me to play in the World Cup.”

Messi won FIFA’s World Player Trophy five times, including four consecutive wins between 2009 and 2012, and has collected its contemporary the Best FIFA Men’s Player three times, in 2019, 2022, and 2023.

The soccer legend has won Europe’s Ballon d’Or a record eight times. When he won the Ballon d’Or in October 2023, Messi became the first active MLS player to do so. He’s also won the European Golden Shoe for top scorer six times, two more than his nearest rival, Cristiano Ronaldo .

In 2023, Time magazine named Messi its Athlete of the Year, pointing to his remarkable impact on soccer’s growing popularity in the United States.

In July 2016, Messi suffered a blow off the soccer field when a Barcelona court found him and his father guilty of three counts of tax fraud. During a four-day trial, Messi and his father denied breaking the law and claimed they were unaware of any tax illegalities they had committed.

However, they were both sentenced to 21 months in prison. Under Spanish law, first offenses under two years are suspended so they did not go to jail, but Messi was ordered to pay a fine of 2 million euros. His father was required to pay 1.5 million euros.

On June 30, 2017, Messi married Antonella Roccuzzo, his longtime girlfriend and the cousin of his best friend and fellow soccer player Lucas Scaglia. Messi met Roccuzzo in their hometown of Rosario when he was 5 years old. Their marriage, a civil ceremony dubbed by Argentina’s Clarín newspaper as the “wedding of the century,” was held at a luxury hotel in Rosario, with a number of fellow star soccer players and Colombian pop star Shakira on the 260-person guest list.

Messi and Roccuzzo have three children together: Thiago, born in November 2012; Mateo, born in September 2015; and Ciro, born in March 2018.

Although famously private off the field, Messi has quietly helped others in need. In 2007, he formed the Leo Messi Foundation to provide opportunities for disadvantaged youths. In early 2010, UNICEF named him a goodwill ambassador, with a focus on fighting for children’s rights across the globe.

• Every time I start a year, I start with the objective of trying to achieve everything, without comparing it to how I’ve done in other seasons.
• Whether it’s a friendly match, or for points, or a final, or any game—I play the same. I’m always trying to be my best, first for my team, for myself, for the fans and to try and win.
• I am competitive, and I feel bad when we lose. You can see it in me when we’ve lost. I’m in a bad way. I don’t like to talk to anyone.
• I made sacrifices by leaving Argentina, leaving my family to start a new life. I changed my friends, my people. Everything. But everything I did, I did for football, to achieve my dream.
• I have fun like a child in the street. When the day comes when I’m not enjoying it, I will leave football.
• I’ve never stopped being Argentine, and I’ve never wanted to. I feel very proud of being Argentine, even though I left there. I’ve been clear about this since I was very young, and I never wanted to change.
• Something deep in my character allows me to take the hits and get on with trying to win. I’ve always had this ability to get up and get on with it.
• I wasn’t teased as a child for my size. In fact, I think I had more affection because I was small.
• I am lucky, I live by my passion, and there are a lot of people who work, doing what they don't like and are badly paid for that.

Fact Check: We strive for accuracy and fairness. If you see something that doesn’t look right, contact us !

The Biography.com staff is a team of people-obsessed and news-hungry editors with decades of collective experience. We have worked as daily newspaper reporters, major national magazine editors, and as editors-in-chief of regional media publications. Among our ranks are book authors and award-winning journalists. Our staff also works with freelance writers, researchers, and other contributors to produce the smart, compelling profiles and articles you see on our site. To meet the team, visit our About Us page: https://www.biography.com/about/a43602329/about-us

Adrienne directs the daily news operation and content production for Biography.com. She joined the staff in October 2022 and most recently worked as an editor for Popular Mechanics , Runner’s World , and Bicycling . Adrienne has served as editor-in-chief of two regional print magazines, and her work has won several awards, including the Best Explanatory Journalism award from the Alliance of Area Business Publishers. Her current working theory is that people are the point of life, and she’s fascinated by everyone who (and every system that) creates our societal norms. When she’s not behind the news desk, find her hiking, working on her latest cocktail project, or eating mint chocolate chip ice cream. 

Tyler Piccotti first joined the Biography.com staff as an Associate News Editor in February 2023, and before that worked almost eight years as a newspaper reporter and copy editor. He is a graduate of Syracuse University. When he's not writing and researching his next story, you can find him at the nearest amusement park, catching the latest movie, or cheering on his favorite sports teams.

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Home > Templates > Messi PowerPoint Template

Messi PowerPoint Template

The free Lionel Messi PSG PowerPoint Template has a red and blue background with a portrait image of one of the best football players in history. This image fits with the topic and makes this template look remarkable. Therefore, the template and PPT background are suitable for all kinds of presentations about his career, performance, goals, personal life, etc. Finally, its background makes it the perfect background for presentations about Messi’s appearance in Paris Saint-Germain. If you want to make a beautiful presentation with a professional look, this is the right PPT background for you. There are also similar templates in our People Category . You can also find similar backgrounds by browsing through labels such as football , sport , Argentina , France , Barcelona , etc.

How to Use Messi PPT Background?

Now, you can download either the presentation template in the POTX format or duplicate the Google Slides template. Both formats are very easy to use. There are various slide layouts in this template that you can use to organize your content in a good way. If you want to impress your audience, read some of our  blog articles  that will help you to improve your presentation skills.

In addition, if you like this free widescreen PowerPoint template you can share your thoughts by replying to this post. Do not forget to follow our social media where you can get links to exclusive stories and templates. Visit our  Facebook ,  Twitter ,  Instagram ,  and  Pinterest  pages and stay tuned to the latest news and trends from the world of presenting.

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Lionel Messi presentation live: concert, Inter Miami announcement, The Unveil on Apple TV

Lionel Messi: Inter Miami presentation

Messi unveiled as an Inter Miami player

Here it is, the moment that one of the all-time greats was introduced to the Inter Miami crowd . The 36-year-old is a huge coup for MLS and his arrival could kick-start a whole new era for the US' professional league. 

Lionel Messi's marketing potential is almost unmatched in the world of sports and his name alone could help catapult MLS into new territories around the world. But for those in DRV PNK Stadium on Sunday night, Messi's arrival is all about his talents on the pitch . 

The seven-time Ballon D'Or winner lands at the worst team in MLS, less than a year after leading his country to a World Cup triumph. So what will Miami do with Messi? What can Messi do with Miami? Football fans around the world will be watching eagerly to find out. 

Lionel Messi is presented with his shirt by Inter Miami owners / CHANDAN KHANNA / AFP

All smiles as Messi takes the Number 10

After being given a rapturous reception by those in attendance at DRV PNK Stadium, Inter Miami owners David Beckham, Jose R. Mas and Jorge Mas welcomed their newest player to the club. Messi was handed the iconic Number 10 jersey and is expected to make his Miami debut against Cruz Azul in the Leagues Cup next week. 

Messi has big plans for his Miami swansong

“I want to thank you for the kindness and love that you have given me. This has happened so fast." "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.” Lionel Messi , Inter Miami

Don't forget about Busquets

Much of the attention tonight, understandably, has been focused on the arrival of Lionel Messi. But the signing of Sergio Busquets should not be overlooked as Tata Martino attempts to overhaul a squad who are currently bottom on the Eastern Conference. 

Busquets was the metronomic heartbeat of some of the finest teams of his generation and played a crucial role during Messi's most productive years at Barcelona. Reuniting the two aging greats could allow them both to flourish in new circumstances. 

What will Lionel Messi bring to Inter Miami?

New arrival Lionel Messi has a pretty stellar CV, but at the age of 36 how much can he really be expected to contribute in the physically demanding world of MLS? 

In short, quite a lot. 

USWNT's Alex Morgan , a fellow World Cup winner, outlines a few of the things that make him great. 

Messi in Miami

The best number ten ever? The finest Argentinian footballer? The greatest of all time?

One thing's for certain, Lionel Messi is now officially an Inter Miami player.

Inter Miami concert is now underway

Colombian singer, musician and songwriter Camilo is on stage now, entertaining the crowds with some Latin American flavours. The rain is still coming down in Miami but that doesn't seem to have dampened spirits at all. 

Messi's arrival can be a game-changer for MLS and US soccer

"This is just taking it to an entirely different level.  " It makes MLS the league of choice , and gives us real momentum going up to the World Cup in 2026." Don Garber , MLS Commissioner

Next up the family

Lionel Messi's family, his wife and three young boys, are introduced on the stage at DRV PNK Stadium, once again to huge applause from the crowd. 

Also joining them on the field are David Beckham's family, including wife Victoria.

There's clearly a desire to ingratiate the new arrivals into Miami and things see to be going well so far. 

Bienvenida a Miami, Leo!

Lionel Messi presented at Inter Miami!

Here he is! World Cup winner Lionel Messi in on the field at DRV PNK Stadium to receive an Inter Miami shirt with Number 10 on the back. 

Fireworks burst, music blares and the crowd cheers. It's hard to believe that he hasn't even touched a ball yet.

The new heartbeat of the Inter Miami midfield, Sergio Busquets , meets the crowd at DRV PNK Stadium for the first time. 

Busquets is handed the Number 5  jersey, the same number that he wore during the majority of his stellar career with Barcelona and the Spanish national teams. 

He addresses the crowd in impressively good English, the Inter Miami faithful give him a warm applause. 

First up, Sergio Busquets!

He may only have been announced today, but Barcelona legend Sergio Busquets is already on the field at DRV PNK Stadium. 

"Our fans are what make Inter Miami unique. Like all of you I can't wait to see Leo take to the field in our colours." "Ladies and gentlemen the next chapter of our story starts here . Gracias!" David Beckham , Inter Miami owner

Ownership group is on field

The lights are down but David Beckham and the rest of the management team at Inter Miami are on the pitch to welcome Lionel Messi to the club. 

Beckham takes the lead, reading a Spanish/English speech from his phone. 

Messi chant rings around the stadium

As happened in Barcelona, and then in Paris. As has been heard in stadiums across Argentina and wherever he appears around the world, ' Messi, Messi, Messi ' rings around the stadium

Beckham takes to the pitch

There are few owners in the world of sport that can match the experience, the name recognition, and the swagger of Inter Miami owner David Beckham. The former Manchester United and Real Madrid star is here to welcome Messi to Miami...

Messi's presentation will begin soon

The action at DRV PNK Stadium is almost about to get underway. The stadium lights are dimmed, the stands are packed and the noise inside is raucous. 

Smoke, lasers and flashing lights as we prepare for the presentation, The Unveil, to begin...

Fans gather for the Messi presentation

Is it too much to say that the arrival of Lionel Messi could be one of the most consequential moments in US sports? Soccer is not yet one of the big sports in the United States but the arrival of Messi, seven-time Ballon D'Or winner and contender for GOAT status, could help bring about that change. 

For those in attendance at the DRV PNK Stadium tonight, it will certainly be an evening to remember. 

Which artists will perform at Lionel Messi’s Inter Miami presentation?

Lionel Messi's presentation, known as The Unveil, is about to get started after a slight delay due to the inclement weather. The evening's entertainment will begin with some big-name musical performances to warm up the crowd ahead of Messi's arrival. 

Here's who might be in store to help welcome Messi to Miami...

Watch: Messi arrives in Miami to cheers

The rain and thunderstorms at DRV PNK Stadium appear to have passed and the poor weather has not dampened the spirits of anyone in attendance this evening. Lionel Messi and his family have just around at the Inter Miami stadium to a rapturous welcome from the local support. 

Just imagine the reaction when they seen him pull on the jersey for real. 

Messi in the house!

He's here. 

World Cup winner Lionel Messi and his family have arrived at the DRV PNK Stadium for his official unveiling as an Inter Miami player. The 36-year-old's arrival will be marked with a ceremony entitled ' The Unveil '. The show could also feature an appearance from Sergio Busquets , Messi's Barcelona teammate, who also signed for the club today. 

Messi to earn more at Inter Miami than any NFL player

Inter Miami may have pulled off one of the greatest transfer coups in the history of football by bringing Lionel Messi, less than a year after leading Argentina to the World Cup, to MLS for the final years of his career. But it's taken more than a handshake from David Beckham to get the deal over the line. 

Reports suggest that Messi's deal not only dwarfs every other player in the league, but also the salary of every NFL player. 

We have movement in Miami!

After a short weather delay due to a thunderstorm in Miami, the DRV PNK Stadium is now filling up with expectant fans waiting for their first glimpse of Lionel Messi. The start of the presentation was originally scheduled for 8:30pm local time (ET) but that may have to be pushed back slightly due to the storm. 

Nevertheless, the stadium is starting to fill up and the atmosphere is growing...

Messi’s Inter Miami salary eclipses rest of MLS

Inter Miami pulled off a massive coup by tempting Lionel Messi, perhaps the greatest player to ever play the game, to MLS for the final years of his stellar career. The Argentine was enticed by Miami's culture, Argentinian influence and his exiting portfolio of real estate investments, but he also stands to gain financially. Big time. 

It is no surprise to hear that Messi will be the biggest earner in MLS , but the 36-year-old's potential earnings are truly gargantuan. 

When will Messi's presentation start?

The presentation ceremony for Lionel Messi at Inter Miami was scheduled to start at 8:30pm local time (ET) but it looks like things will be starting a bit later. 

Inter Miami have announced a ' Weather Delay ' due to a thunderstorm covering the DRV PNK Stadium. The club have not yet offered a revised start time, but there's still dark skies in Miami. 

Rooney warns Messi of MLS challenge

"Everything is set for him. He's got all his mates over! [Sergio] Busquets and  Jordi Alba  have signed for Inter Miami and maybe [Andres] Iniesta will join them. Luis Suarez too. Messi has a coach [Inter Miami manager Tata Martino] he likes and trusts. It's huge, especially with what's going on in Saudi, for the MLS to attract Messi." "He won't find it easy here. It sounds mad, but players who come in find it's a tough league . The travelling, the different conditions in different cities, and there's a lot of energy and intensity on the pitch." Wayne Rooney , DC United head coach

Watch: Beckham’s welcome video for Inter Miami new boy Messi

While we wait out the thunderstorm-induced delay to the action in DRV PNK Stadium, lets have a look at how Inter Miami president David Beckham welcomed Lionel Messi to the club...

'The Beckhams' arrive for Messi presentation

It's not often that David Beckham is not the centre of attention, but for tonight there's only one man in the spotlight. Inter Miami's president has arrived at DRV PNK Stadium to witness the official announcement of Lionel Messi as their new Number 10. 

Thunderstorm weather in Miami delays The Unveil

Here's the scene in the DRV PNK Stadium, Miami as thunderstorms and heavy rain postpone the start of Lionel Messi's official unveiling. Inter Miami have warned fans of a 'Weather Delay ' but have not yet confirmed the extent of the delay.

Lionel Messi's Miami presentation hit with weather delay

Inter Miami have reportedly been working on the Lionel Messi transfer for years, but after all the suspense it looks like fans will have to wait a few minutes longer. 

Messi's unveiling has been hit with a weather delay that will suspend the start in Miami. We'll bring you more information of the delay as soon as we have it. 

Argentina takes over DRV PNK Stadium for Lionel Messi’s Inter Miami presentation

Lionel Messi has not even stepped foot on a pitch but already he is the centre of the footballing world in Miami. Throughout the day fans of Inter Miami, and huge numbers of Argentinian soccer fans, have been gathering at the stadium for the arrival of the man often called the greatest player of all time. 

We're still two hours from The Unveil but supporters are already chanting his name...

“El Messias is the greatest, he came to Miami to change history... ‘Y ya lo ve, y ya lo ve, esta es la hinchada de Lionel,’” they chanted on the south side of the DRV PNK Stadium.

Inter Miami add Sergio Busquets to the squad

Just hours before unveiling Lionel Messi, the biggest star in the history of MLS, Inter Miami casually dropped another signing. World Cup winner Sergio Busquets will be joining former Barcelona teammate Lionel Messi in the black, white and pink of Inter Miami. 

Busquets spent the last 15 years in the first team at Barcelona, winning all that there is to be won and becoming the beating heart of at least two of the finest teams to ever play the game. 

It's Messi x Busi for Miami now...

LIONEL MESSI

Inter Miami player Lionel Messi spotted shopping in Publix

He may only have landed in Florida earlier this week, but already Lionel Messi has been turning heads in the Sunshine State . In his first few days in Miami the World Cup winner was spotted in staple grocery store Publix, getting familiar to his new surroundings. 

Here's what happened when the Messi family did their first 'big shop' in their new home...

David Beckham welcomes Messi to Miami

How many football club owners boast multiple league titles and a Champions League winner's medal to their name? Not many, but Inter Miami president  David Beckham  is one of them!

The former England captain is at the stadium today and earlier welcomed Lionel Messi to the club. 

Lionel Messi Inter Miami presentation: times, how to watch on TV, stream online | MLS ‘The Unveil’

We will have full coverage, pictures and videos from Lionel Messi's Inter Miami presentation right here, but you can also watch or stream The Unveil live with Apple TV and Season Pass. 

If you want to get a glimpse of the 'GOAT', here's what you need to do...

Miami crowds wait for Messi

We're still more than two hours from the expected start time of The Unveil but already expectant Miami fans are crowding the area around the DRV PNK Stadium . Lionel Messi's presentation was officially announced earlier this week but the deal to take the Argentine to Miami has been in the pipeline for years. 

There's not long for those fans to wait now...

Hello and welcome to AS USA , where we'll be bringing you full coverage from Lionel Messi's official presentation as an Inter Miami player. 

I'm Will Gittins and I'll be guiding you through tonight's events as Messi is introduced in The Unveil from Inter Miami's DRV PNK Stadum. 

The 36-year-old forward arrived in Miami earlier this week after months of speculation about his future. The Argentine is expected to make his debut for the club in next week's Leagues Cup fixture , but tonight he will officially announce himself to the Miami faithful. 

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When is Lionel Messi presentation at Inter Miami? Date, time, live stream, TV channel for official press conference introduction

The official presentation of Lionel Messi as an Inter Miami player takes place on Sunday, July 16 as football fans experience 'The Unveil' or 'La PresentaSIon' as the event is being dubbed by the club.

The 36-year-old decided to leave Paris Saint-Germain following two years in the French capital, sparking a move to Miami and a new adventure in his career. After he indicated on June 7 his intention to sign with the club, Messi's signing was officially confirmed on July 15 .

Messi will next be presented as the next big star of Major League Soccer in front of his Inter Miami fans in a sold-out stadium. The club confirmed performances by musical artists Camilo, Ozuna, and Argentina's own Paulo Londra and Tiago PZK.

The Sporting News looks at the key details of Messi's official presentation as an Inter Miami player and where fans can watch it .

LIVE BLOG: Follow all the highlights from Lionel Messi's unveiling as it happens

When is Lionel Messi presentation at Inter Miami?

Messi will be presented as part of an event that kicks off at 6 p..m. ET on Sunday, July 16 . His new teammate Sergio Busquets is also expected to be introduced to the fans.

The World Cup champion will feature in the portion of the event that begins at 8:30 p.m. ET . 

That 8:30 p.m. ET window is also when the free  stream on Apple TV kicks off . Here is how that translates to major regions around the world:

MORE: What jersey number will Lionel Messi have at Inter Miami?

How to watch Lionel Messi's presentation at Inter Miami

Messi's presentation will be available for fans around the world to watch in both English and Spanish via a special one-hour show streamed for FREE on  MLS Season Pass on Apple TV beginning at 8:30 p.m. ET .

• Date: Sunday, July 16, 2023
• Live stream: MLS Season Pass on Apple TV
• Stream start time: 8:30 p.m. ET 

According to the club, a portion of the event will also be live streamed for free on Inter Miami CF Twitter , YouTube and Twitch channels . This could presumably be the part taking place between 6 p.m. ET and 8:30 p.m. ET, before the Apple TV exclusive window starts.

MORE: Watch MLS Season Pass on Apple TV at 50% off the full-season price

Kaylyn Kyle will be the host for an English-language commentary team that includes former MLS players Taylor Twellman and Sacha Kljestan, as well as Stefano Fusaro, who will be on-site.

The Spanish-language team will include Messi's former teammate and MLS legend Diego Valeri, Eduardo Biscayart, and host Andres Agulla. Antonella Gonzalez will be on hand at DRV PNK Stadium.

The Athletic have previously reported that MLS have been in talks with CONCACAF, and broadcasters Fox and Univision, to have Messi's presentation aired during halftime of the Gold Cup final between Mexico and Panama which kicks off at 8 p.m. ET. 

MORE: Beginner's guide to Messi's new club Inter Miami

Joel Sritharan is a freelance writer for Sporting News UK. 

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'La PresentaSÍon': Inter Miami CF unveils Lionel Messi

After weeks of anticipation, Lionel Messi has finally signed with Inter Miami CF and was unveiled in front of his new home crowd in the rain at DRV PNK Stadium on Sunday night.

The seven-time Ballon d'Or winner revealed last month he would play in the U.S. for David Beckham's MLS club , but the deal wasn't finalized for weeks. Meanwhile, ticket prices for the squad's upcoming games skyrocketed. Inter Miami, which currently sits at the  bottom of the Eastern Conference , officially announced Messi's signing Saturday and set a grand welcome for the 2022 World Cup champion.

Lionel Messi: 'I really want to win'

There were no monumental predictions or proclamations from Lionel Messi, who during the presentation spoke for about two minutes in Spanish. 

“I really want to start training, and competing,’’ Messi said. “I really want to win and for this club to keep growing. … 

“Personally, I believe that my teammates are going to give everything to build this project and I am very happy to have chosen this city,’’ he said, “to have chosen this project and I have no doubt that we are going to have a great time and we are going to experience very nice things." 

The glitzy production included fireworks, a taped welcome that included Tom Brady, Steph Curry and a little more Messi. 

He expressed gratitude for the people of Miami, and thousands of fans created a festive environment inside the team’s 18,000-seat home stadium and braved rain that delayed the event by two hours. 

He also thanked the team’s owners, which includes David Beckham, “for this recognition, for making everything easy, and for making us feel at home.’’ 

Lionel Messi receives his No. 10 Inter Miami jersey

Lionel Messi was greeted by applause from fans in attendance at DRV PNK Stadium before receiving a pink Inter Miami jersey with his familiar No. 10 on the back.

Soak it in, Leo Messi. The warmest of welcomes to @InterMiamiCF . pic.twitter.com/STzKSDrBGh — Major League Soccer (@MLS) July 17, 2023

Inter Miami co-owner: 'This is holy water'

It was a rain-soaked unveiling at DRV PNK Stadium for the Lionel Messi unveiling, but one of the team owners put a positive spin on a wet weather.

"Tonight is a gift and a celebration to the city who opened its arms to my family and so many others seeking freedom … we're doing this Miami style in the rain! This is holy water," Inter Miami co-owner Jorge Mas said to the crowd.

MLS commissioner: 'A real testament to where MLS is'

MLS commissioner Don Garber was in attendance for the Lionel Messi ceremony. In an interview , Garber discussed what Messi's decision to join Inter Miami means for the league.

"We want MLS to be a league of choice, a league of choice for players, for fans, for partners, and ultimately for investors. And when you have the best player of all time, making Major League Soccer, his league of choice, I think it’s a real testament to where MLS is and where it’s going in the years ahead," Garber said.

In April, two months before Messi decided to go to Miami , Garber said that Messi "can be bigger than any athlete of any sport that has ever played here in the United States."

When is Inter Miami CF unveiling Lionel Messi?

The MLS club was scheduled to host "La PresentaSÍon" on Sunday at DRV PNK Stadium, starting at 6:30 p.m. ET.

However, the team said there is a weather day that delayed the start. The event was pushed to 8 p.m. ET.

How to watch Inter Miami CF unveil Lionel Messi

The event will be livestreamed for free on MLS Season Pass on Apple TV. Parts of the event will also be streamed live on Inter Miami's Twitter , YouTube and Twitch channels, as well as the team's website , MLS website and MLS Facebook .

Lionel Messi arrives for Inter Miami unveiling ceremony

Messi along with this family ― wife Antonela Roccuzzo and their three sons ― have arrived at DRV PNK Stadium for "La PresentaSÍon" .

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Major League Soccer (@mls)

Inter Miami CF-Lionel Messi festivities

The event will be hosted by MLS Season Pass personalities Melissa Ortiz Venezuelan MLS reporter Tony Cherchi.

The night will be highlighted with speeches from Messi, Beckham and Inter Miami CF Managing Owner Jorge Mas. There will also be musical performances from Camilo, Ozuna and Argentine performers Paulo Londra and Tiago PZK.

Sergio Busquets joins Inter Miami

One of Lionel Messi's teammates from FC Barcelona will join the soccer icon in Miami . Sergio Busquets announced on Sunday with he was signing with the MLS club .

Busquets arrived at Barcelona in 2005 and played 722 matches for the club, winning nine La Liga titles. Busquets also won the 2010 World Cup and 2012 UEFA European championship with Spain.

Welcome to @InterMiamiCF , Sergio. 👋🇪🇸 pic.twitter.com/zGAdE0KcA4 — Major League Soccer (@MLS) July 17, 2023

"This is a special and exciting opportunity that I’m very excited to take. I’m looking forward to this next step in my career with Inter Miami," Busquets said in a statement . "I was impressed by the club when I came with Barcelona last year and now I’m happy and ready to represent the club myself. I can’t wait to help bring the success that this ambitious club strives for."

Lionel Messi spotted at local grocery store

A couple of days before being officially presented as an Inter Miami player, Lionel Messi hit up the store for a couple of things. The greatest soccer player of all time, a man idolized by literally billions who has fundamentally changed the game of soccer and how we look at it, is also a man who goes to Publix to buy Reese’s Puffs cereal.

- Jason Anderson, Pro Soccer Wire

Lionel Messi's Inter Miami presentation in pictures

Here are some of the best images of the historic event that brought one of the soccer's legends to inter miami., published july 16, 2023 • updated on july 17, 2023 at 9:16 am.

Inter Miami made formal the signing of World Cup winner with Argentina Lionel Messi on Sunday with a memorable event featuring music, tricks and happy fans.

Here are some of the best images seen around the DRV PNK Stadium in Fort Lauderdale:

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Fans weather the storm outside the DRV PNK Stadium holding life-like images of the new number 10 for Inter Miami.

The Hurricane season is on. Our meteorologists are ready. Sign up for the NBC 6 Weather newsletter to get the latest forecast in your inbox.

From Argentina jerseys to customized shirts, fans rocked their best 'fits' for the historical event:

Inside the stadium, the atmosphere was electric as fans chanted, sang and dance whilst the rain poured down:

It did not take long for the celebration to get started as host Tony Cherchi gave a warm welcome to another new signing and a former Barcelona player, Sergio Busquets:

Then Mr. David Beckham himself went on center stage and helped introduce the man, the myth, the legend Lionel Messi:

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Lionel Messi's presentation at Inter Miami LIVE: Messi: How the historic MLS event unfolded

Lionel Messi's presentation with Inter Miami at the DRV PNK Stadium is set to begin at 8:00 PM ET.

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• Inter Miami. Messi is already 'wearing' the pink Inter Miami kit
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Lionel Messi is already in Miami and he is days away from his official presentation with Inter Miami at the DRV PNK Stadium on Sunday, July 16th at 8:00 PM ET.

Messi chose Inter Miami as his new home

The task to pick a team and weigh in all the options to choose a new home is not easy and both Antonella and Lionel have moved on several occasions, however, this is the first time in decades since the Messis are coming to America and everyone has received them with open arms, regardless if people follow soccer or not, Floridians know about his impeccable record.

Thank you for following along!

Keep tuned in to MARCA.com to keep tabs Messi as he enters the Iner Miami era of his career

All smiles during Messi night in Miami

Inter Miami welcomed their new #10 in front of thousands of fans

Beckhams & Messis took center stage

David Beckham's family was part of the crew that welcomed the Messis to Miami at the Argentine star's presentation

Messi's full speech as he thanks the club, and fans, for warm welcome

Lionel took the chance to thank everyone in attendance for their welcome to the city and the club:

"Thank you very much. Good evening.

I want to thank all the people in Miami for this welcome, this affection since I arrived here. I am very excited to be with you. I want to thank Jose, Jorge, and David for this recognition, for making everything easy, and for making us feel at home. I really want to start training, and competing, I really want to win and for this club to keep growing. I hope that throughout the tournament you will continue to accompany us. Personally, I believe that my teammates are going to give everything to build this project and I am very happy to have chosen this city, to have chosen this project and I have no doubt that we are going to have a great time and we are going to experience very nice things."

Inter Miami shows off new crown jewel

Messi poses with club owners during his presentation

Show's on in Miami

Messi's presentation is underway. Follow it LIVE here:

Alex Morgan: "There is no one in the game that compares to Messi"

The USWNT star, who is currently at the Women's World Cup , has nothing but praise for Messi

It's a party inside the stadium

The atmosphere inside DRV PRK stadium to welcome Messi into the MLS

How Messi and Antonella entered the scene

Lionel Messi, along with his wife Antonella Roccuzzo and their 3 sons, arrived at his presentation after the thunderstorm delay

How to watch?

IF you want to watch live, MLS will broadcast a special event on Apple TV called "Bienvenido Messi"

David Beckham is on the field

Fans are cheering on the club owner as the presentation is about to start

Fans are ready for the show to start

Inter Miami fans are exited to officially welcome Lionel Messi

Sergio Busquets is in the house

The Spanish player , set to be presented with Inter Miami, didn't want to miss Messi's big night

Club confirms presentation will go ahead

Inter Miami has informed fans that the presentation will go on at 8pm ET

Messi is in the building

First images of Messi and his family, including wife Antonella Roccuzzo , making their way inside the stadium for his presentation with the club

Fans allowed to return to their seats

The presentation will go ahead once the weather alert is deactivated

Fans seen rushing into the stadium despite storm

It appears that security got lax because of the weather

Inter Miami fans have to wait a little longer to see Messi

Club hasn't announced how much longer fans will have to wait

The view from inside DRV PRK Stadium

Fans share how they are weathering the storm in Miami

Fans sheltering at the stadium... and even their cars!

Inter Miami asked fans to remain in a safe space while they wait for the storm to pass

The storm in Miami looks intense

Fans and journalists are trying to cover up as storm pounds DRV PNK Stadium in Miami

Wheather delay in Miami

The start of the presentation is being delayed because of a thunderstorm in the area

MARCA Exclusive: Journalist Daniel Hidalgo is at the venue reporting live from this historic moment

The Messi Effect permeates all the news, not only soccer journalism

The Messi Effect has the highest impact in the United States, never before had there been an athlete with such reach and interest when coming to play in the United States.

Beckham and Messi: the stars are out in Miami

What a sight for Inter Miami fans: Lionel Messi and David Beckham share a hug as the countdown to the Argentine's presentation edges ever closer.

The DRV PNK Stadium, the stadium that will mark Messi's historic debut in the U.S.

With a capacity of 21,000 fans after adding extra stands, the DRV PNK Stadium is the venue where Lionel Messi will be introduced as an Inter Miami player and where he is expected to make his debut on Friday against Cruz Azul in the Leagues Cup.

Fans already gathering for Messi's presentation

We're still a few hours away from Lionel Messi being presented as a new Inter Miami player, but fans are already gathering for the festivities.

In fact, the he Leo Messi supporters' group Messias 305 is already dancing and gearing up for what's to come.

Fans will have to wait to hear from Messi

While Messi will be presented to fans tonight, it looks as though they will have to wait to hear from him.

A press conference was scheduled for Monday, but Inter Miami have announced that it has been postponed.

No word yet on when the press conference will take place.

Tom Brady congratulates Beckham on signing Messi

The former NFL quarterback and friend of David Beckham took advantage of the Brit's posting of a video of the Argentine's signing on his Instagram to congratulate him and cheer on Inter Miami. Will we see Tom at the Miami's games?

Miami welcomes Messi with a lot of heat

Lionel Messi will certainly get a warm welcome when he is unveiled as an Inter Miami player on Sunday night.

And it seems that the state of Florida is joining in on that, with a record heat wave hitting the region with temperatures of 44 degrees celsius (111 degrees Fahrenheit).

Messi is banned from St Louis bar

Messi is not allowed in a bar in St Louis. That's because the owner does not want to see shirts of Inter Miami, the Argentina national team, or the clubs Barcelona, PSG, Newell's Old Boys or Grandoli, something that already happened when the South American arrived at the French team and faced Brest.

"It has been our policy from day one. Opposing team shirts can be worn elsewhere in the stadium, but our supporters section is extremely important to us and they are the heartbeat of the heart of our stadium. We are proud of our supporters and the incredible environment they have created at CITYPARK," the St Louis ultras told Telam.

Messi's presentation

Lionel Messi signed his contract with Inter Miami yesterday and tonight at 20:00 (02:00 CEST) will be his presentation. The party that the MLS franchise has organised exceeds the limits of a typical presentation.

Inter did not want to give many details of the so-called 'Unveiling Event', which will fill the scarce 20,000 seats of a DRV PNK Stadium that happens to be the provisional home of the club presided over by David Beckham. Today will also be the presentation of Messi, Sergio Busquets and coach Tata Martino, but there will be no official match. That will presumably be on July 21 against Cruz Azul in the first game of the Leagues Cup, the tournament created out of nothing between Liga MX and MLS to make money.

Messi-Barbie crossover?

The recent release of the hit movie Barbie coincides with the arrival of Leo Messi to Miami. As such, pranksters on social media have merged the two events into one funny mock billboard for a hypothetical movie in which the Argentine is the male protagonist alongside Margot Robbie.

On the image, it states that the 'release date' is July 21, which is the expected debut of the No.10 against Mexican side Cruz Azul.

Messi's debut is sold out

Lionel Messi is expected to make his debut for Inter Miami very soon. The Argentine player will most likely make his first appearance on July 21 against Mexican side Cruz Azul.

The excitement about the arrival of the former PSG and Barcelona player has spread since the news of his signing for the MLS team.

That is why the tickets for this match are already sold out and there is talk that the resale prices are going through the roof. In this black market for tickets, the price ranges from 1,319 to 6,000 dollars.

Messi settling in to Miami

He may be the greatest player on the planet and a global icon, but that doesn't mean Leo Messi doesn't have to do the same things as any normal person would have to. He was recently spotted in a Miami supermarket stocking up on supplies as he adapts to his new home city, with several fans spotting him and asking him for a photo, although the chaos wasn't quite as hectic as it would have been in Europe.

At one point, Messi asks his wife Antonela for the keys so he can start the car, while fans try to get a snap with him.

Messi shirts on sale

The Inter Miami store will likely be having its busiest day in existence as the shirt of the Argentine great will be sought after by every fan of the club.

Ozuna to perform at Messi presentation

Famous Puerto Rican singer, songwriter, and rapper Ozuna will be performing at Messi's presentation. The city of Miami has a massive Hispanic community, and all the big names are coming out for the legendary No.10.

David Beckham: The next chapter of our story starts here

"Ten years ago when I started this journey, I dreamt of bringing the greatest players in the world to Miami... Players who shared the ambition I had when I joined LA Galaxy to help grow football in this country and build a legacy in this sport that we love so much. Today that dream came true. I couldn't be prouder that a player of Leo's calibre is joining our club but I'm also delighted to welcome a friend, an amazing person and his beautiful family to join our @InterMiamiCF community"

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Tata Martino happy to have Messi on board as Inter Miami's winless run stretches to eleven!

Hours after Inter Miami announced its contract with Lionel Messi, the team's winless streak reached 11 with a 3-0 loss to St. Louis City on Saturday night in Gerardo Martino's debut as coach. Messi was to be introduced Sunday night as Miami's stadium in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. "First of all, we're happy the signing of the contract was made official today and tomorrow he has his presentation. We would've liked to have been able to gift him a win for that presentation, and we haven't been able to do it. Then, looking to the future, with the excitement that comes with having the best player in the world playing for your team. But also with the patience we need to have to make him physically ready so he can play at the right moment", Martino said.

Phil Neville was fired as Miami's coach on June 1 after 2 1/2 seasons. Martino, who coached Messi with Barcelona and Argentina's national team, was hired June 28.

The world champion could debut as soon as this Friday, July 21 when Miami begin their 2023 Leagues Cup campaign at home against Liga MX's Cruz Azul.

Everyone wants to see Messi play

The announcement of Lionel Messi 's arrival at MLS's Inter Miami sparked tremendous excitement in the United States , and ticket prices for the Argentine star's potential debut have already surged on online platforms, exceeding $9,000 for the Inter Miami vs. Cruz Azul match on July 21.

Laporta claims Messi wanted a change

When speaking about Miami signing Messi, Joan Laporta, president of FC Barcelona said that "We agreed, but everything has its time and sometimes the rhythms are different," Laporta told Catalan media.

"The contract was agreed upon, but when LaLiga gave us the authorization, Messi's father told me that Leo had had two difficult years in Paris, that he had suffered a lot and now he wanted to play in a league with less pressure. I told him it was perfectly understandable."

Barcelona pays tribute to Leo Messi

Barcelona has released an emotional video showcasing some of Messi 's best plays and goals during his time at Camp Nou.

The video shared on the club's social media platforms, includes footage of Messi addressing the Barcelona fans with the words 'Visca el Barca y Visca Catalunya', expressing his love and support for the club and Catalonia.

Hard Rock Cafe has a sandwich named after Messi

Hard Rock International has worked with Lionel Messi on a number of campaigns and now a 'Messi Burger' is coming to Hard Rock Cafes everywhere.

The burger has already been sold at the Hard Rock Cafe Miami and Hard Rock Cafe Hollywood in Florida since the start of the year and now it'll be rolled out elsewhere.

Tata Martino remains optimistic about the team's performance

According to Inter Miami's head coach Gerardo Martino, the team is performing well, they are aiming not to lose and concentrate on what is going on right now rather than what will happen in a month's time.

What is changing with Messi's Arrival?

Although there has to be a change in the team's course due to their sub-par record in the MLS Eastern Conference, Messi' s soon-to-be teammates believe that not there will be changes but at this point, they have to keep on working as Josef Martinez mentioned.

Messi continues to inspire as there are now more murals of him in Miami

David Beckham is arguably more excited than anyone about Lionel Messi's arrival to Miami. So much so, the MLS team co-owner commissioned a massive art mural with the likeness of the soccer superstar right in the heart of Miami (Wynwood neighborhood).

What is Messi's next course of action?

From August 20 to October 21, Messi and Inter Miami are set to play 12 games, providing an opportunity to secure 36 points. While it's unrealistic to expect Messi to magically secure victories across all these matches, his presence is expected to significantly bolster the team's playoff aspirations. Currently, the team lags 15 points behind the playoff qualifying spots and 10 points away from the wild card positions, which presents a big challenge, but there's room for optimism.

Matches ahead for Messi and his team include those against Cincinnati and Nashville , who currently hold the top spot in the Western Conference. Additionally, six matches are slated against clubs who are in a similar predicament, currently out of the playoffs.

Jordi Alba's potential arrival in Miami

According to the Miami Herald , left-back Jordi Alba will join Inter Miami in the coming days, as he has reached a deal with the club. This means Major League Soccer will soon be home to three of soccer's most famous players -- and they'll all be in the same team again.

Tata Martino needs a plan and he needs it now

A day prior to Messi's presentation , Tata Martino lost the game against St. Louis with a terrible score of 0-3. Although many are counting on Leo's talents, there has to be a plan to play as a team.

Not the first time in Pink

Many Messi fans racing to the stores to buy new Messi swag including his most recent Inter Milan pink jersey, however, this is not the first time he has worn pink.

As we can see in his 2019 Adidas model, he also took pink as his favorite color for his cleats

Messi as a content creator?

Leo Messi had a hard choice to make in order to let go of a 1.6B contract in Saudi Arabia to come to the US, however, there is a back side of things that points out more to his next move as a businessman according to business analysts.

Leo Messi, Jordi Alba, and Sergio Busquets get compared to Dwyane Wade, LeBron James, and Chris Bosh as they are being called The Big 3 of the MLS

How did Messi and the Argentina National Football Team win Copa America?

Messi had reached the Copa America final for the fourth time, hoping to finally get that wicked monkey off his back. What happened after was nothing short of a fairytale.

That triumph was Messi's first international trophy at the senior level and broke a streak of 28 years without a trophy for Argentina . Accomplishing that in the Maracana against their fiercest rival, Brazil made the victory even more special.

Following the Copa America win, Argentina went on to win the Finalissima against Italy . Lionel Scaloni 's side followed that up with a rollercoaster World Cup campaign that ended with La Albiceleste lifting the trophy for a third time in their storied history.

Messi Opens Up His Haters

Messi dropped some genuinely honest responses all throughout, particularly when talking about his previous haters in Argentina .

We received a lot of criticism more than anything because they talked about things outside of soccer. They crossed the line of lack of respect, which was not right. Even though they didn't tell me, I know my family suffered through it, too.

What are the MLS games that Messi will play upon arrival?

Messi is arriving in Miami in the middle of the season and although he will surely be taking control of the game, Inter's advancement to the playoffs is not promised.

Inter Miami's MLS schedule now with Lionel Messi:

• Miami vs Charlotte DRV PNK Stadium 08-20
• New York vs Miami Red Bull Arena 08-26
• Miami vs Nashville DRV PNK Stadium 08-30
• LAFC vs Miami BMO Stadium 09-03
• Miami vs Kansas City DRV PNK Stadium 09-09
• Atlanta vs Miami Mercedes Benz Stadium 09-16
• Miami vs Toronto DRV PNK PNK Stadium 09-20
• Orlando vs Miami Exploria Stadium 09-24
• Miami vs New York City DRV PNK Stadium 09-30
• Chicago vs Miami Soldier Field 10-04
• Miami vs Cincinnati DRV PNK Stadium 10-07
• Charlotte vs Miami Bank of America Stadium 10-21

Messi as an actor?

Leo Messi made his acting debut in an Argentinian streaming TV show called 'Los protectores', in which he plays himself opposite a trio of football players' representatives.

The appearance comes in the second season of the Star Original Productions comedy, starring Argentinians Adrian Suar and Gustavo Bermudez , and Colombian Andres Parra , who play three footballers' agents.

How much is a Topps Leo Messi card?

A fan who bought a package couldn't have expected that in that package, which costs about 20 euros, he would get, after Anthony Elanga, Johan Bakayoko and Matthijs de Ligt , a dual card, i.e. signed by two players, with the signatures of Cristiano Ronaldo and Leo Messi .

David Beckham opened up about how he found out about Messi's signing

"A couple of weeks ago, I woke up to about a million messages on my phone," Beckham noted. "I was thinking, 'What's gone off? I don't usually get this many messages.' All of a sudden, I hear Leo come out and announced he's coming to Miami. Obviously, it wasn't a surprise to me."

With Lionel Messi moving to Inter Miami , fans are desperate to see him play in the MLS. Last week, one football fan flew to Philadelphia to watch the MLS match between Philadelphia Union and Inter Miami , which Messi 's new team lost 4-1. However, Messi wasn't playing in that game, as he is currently on holiday in Argentina.

Even the Miami Heat gave a warm Miami welcome to Lionel Messi!

Messi opened up about his World Cup Experience recently en mentioned that "To have achieved the objectives with the Argentina national team and to have achieved everything at an individual level, at a team level, for me it is close to an extraordinary career," said the 36-year-old.

Antonela Roccuzzo , the wife of Lionel Messi , has garnered significant attention and admiration over the years. As the partner of a global sports icon, Roccuzzo has been thrust into the spotlight, and her striking looks and undeniable charm have captivated fans around the world.

How much is Messi's starting 9 team worth?

Tomorrow's presentation event is named 'The Unveil,' where the Florida club will reveal their signings like the Argentine, Sergio Busquets , Gerardo 'Tata' Martino, and of course #10

Messi's arrival at Miami's training center had already a line of people who wanted to see the World Cup Champion.

Some fans can't seem to contain their excitement when meeting their heroes! Fortunately, Messi is a good sport about these kinds of things.

Messi will join David Beckham, Giorgio Chiellini, Zlatan Ibrahimovic, Steven Gerrard, Frank Lampard, Andrea Pirlo, Kaká, and Wayne Rooney's stint in the MLS.

Let's take a look at Messi's 2022 season with Paris Saint-Germain

What do you do if you see Messi grocery shopping next to you?

Messi had a small collision in Miami!

Messi's one of us

On Thursday night, pictures of Messi surfaced while he was checking out with groceries at Publix, the largest supermarket chain in Florida.

How much will Lionel Messi earn at Inter Miami?

According to sources, Messi's life at Inter Miami might not be as luxurious as his South Florida vacations as the club currently has the lowest average attendance in MLS, with their PNK Stadium holding a mere 19,100 people, but Messi will reportedly earn a whopping $54 million

Pink never looked this good, as Messi has his official jersey, even in New York's Adidas Soho store dawned with the image of Messi with the new kit, and social media is already exploding over a jersey that aims to be one of the best-selling in the world.

While Leo Messi is arriving in Miami, there are others who are leaving, including Rodolfo Pizarro

Remember to watch all of Messi's games including tomorrow's presentation on Apple TV+

Ozuna, Camilo, Tiago PZK, and Paulo Londra are set to be in the presentation

David Beckham knows it!

Everyone is getting ready for Messi's first words as an Inter Miami player

Leo Messi's arrival has been an inspiration for singers and musicians, including the ones who sang his official tune .

Here we will have complete coverage of his arrival in Miami along with the relevant information so you can stay updated

As many expect, the presentation is set to be a massive welcome for the Argentinian superstar who had a difficult choice to make after his contract ended with Paris Saint-Germain.

Leo Messi's arrival to Major League Soccer and Inter Miami will give the team and the league much-needed international exposure.

Leo Messi's arrival at Inter Miami

Bringing Leo Messi to the United States was no easy task as every club wanted a piece of the World Cup Champion , however, Miami made the best offer and will give the fans an unprecedented opportunity to witness the talent of the Argentinian player.

Messi Mania began in Miami as soon as his signing became official and all the preparations are in place, even Adidas, changed their slogan to accommodate the star, they went from the traditional "Impossible is nothing" to "Impossible is coming" .

As we get closer to Messi's presentation , there have teasers, posters, cutouts, and other types of memorabilia to commemorate the arrival of the player to the US.

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Lionel Messi Gives M.L.S. First Taste of the Weight of His Star

One day after Messi’s contract with Inter Miami became official, the club presented him to fans in a rain-soaked stadium and on the league’s streaming platform.

By James Wagner

Reporting from Fort Lauderdale, Fla.

Just before 9 p.m. on Sunday, the greatest soccer player of his era, and maybe the greatest of all time, walked across a makeshift stage in his new home stadium. He hugged the owners of his new team, including the former star David Beckham. As he held his new jersey — a pink No. 10 — Lionel Messi grinned and looked up at the crowd and the fireworks.

If it has felt like a dream that Messi, who won the World Cup in December as Argentina’s captain and who has claimed seven Ballons d’Or as the world’s best player, chose Inter Miami of M.L.S. as his team for the twilight of his career, his unveiling event was proof that, yes, this has actually happened.

“Before anything, I want to give thanks to Miami for this reception and the kindness since I arrived to the city,” Messi said in Spanish in his first public comments since his monumental deal, which runs through the 2025 M.L.S. season, was announced on Saturday. “To be honest, I’m very emotional and very happy to be here in Miami and to be with you.”

For two minutes, Messi, 36, spoke directly to the Inter Miami fans who chanted his surname throughout the night at DRV PNK Stadium, about 30 miles north of downtown Miami. Messi’s introduction was called La PresentaSíon, or the Presentation in Spanish, but with “Sí” (“Yes”) emphasized. And in typical South Florida fashion, it took place in the rain.

In choosing Miami, where he owns property, Messi turned down a chance to play in Saudi Arabia, where a team had offered him significantly more money. He also declined the possibility of returning to Barcelona, where he signed at 13, won every major trophy and wanted to remain before moving to Paris-St. Germain in 2021.

Long before Messi’s time in France came to an unceremonious end this summer, the owners of Inter Miami had dreamed of bringing him to South Florida. The event on Sunday and the weeks leading up to it have shown how much of a jolt Messi has already provided to the franchise, the region and soccer in the United States.

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Lionel Messi's presentation at Inter Miami: MLS club officially unveil Barcelona and Argentina legend

Rain delayed things, but it was quite the celebration in fort lauderdale.

Lionel Messi of Inter Miami was unveiled to the world on Sunday night in a celebration at DRV PNK Stadium in Fort Lauderdale. His former Barcelona teammate, Sergio Busquets, was also unveiled in what was a rain-soaked night that saw the events delayed. David Beckham helped usher in Messi's arrival that he called bigger than his own arrival that helped mold Major League Soccer but we've yet to see what Messi's impact will be on the pitch. 

Given the number 10 as expected, Messi was welcomed by many familiar faces in a video that featured United States women's national team star Alex Morgan, U.S. men's national team coach Gregg Berhalter, NFL legend Tom Brady, Golden State Warriors star Stephen Curry, D.J. Khaled, Argentina tennis legend Juan Manuel Del Potro and more.

Busquets was presented with the No. 5 jersey. 

Expected to debut on July 21 during the Leagues Cup against Cruz Azul, there will be more landmark moments to come for the Argentine icon. Here's a look at his introduction:

Braving the rain to get the unveiling done, it was still quite the show. Prior to things, CBS Sports had the chance to speak with former USMNT international and LA Galaxy midfielder Cobi Jones about what Messi's arrival means to the league.

"I think people need to understand with Messi coming to the league what that means for the league or what Messi means. Everyone likes to say that MLS is a retirement league but Messi is a World Cup winner and an MVP so anyway that you want to look at it, that messaging from some of the people that want to disparage doesn't quite work so well," Jones said.

"This is fantastic for the league, someone that's at the top of his game that's just won the World Cup is coming here to be part of MLS because not only is it a great league to be a part of but it's showing the potential that's still there for this league and what's to be had moving forward."

Sunday is just the tip of the iceberg as Messi helps accelerate the growth of the league and push it to heights that we never thought it could reach. One of the best players to ever pick up a soccer ball will now ply their trade in America with expectations being multiplied like never before. 

He's here and he's perfect

Here he comes.

Messi is coming out of the tunnel to receive his number 10  to fireworks as a new era begins at DRV PNK stadium and within MLS as well. The league has never seen something like this as a new barrier will be broken daily.

Sergio Busquets will wear the number five

Coming up to receive his Inter Miami jersey, Busquets was greeted with cheers before greeting the fans.

Sergio Busquets is also unveiled

David Beckham speaks on how special what the club is building is and he's correct as it's genuinely like nothing that the league has ever seen in its history.

The rain can't stop the show

Entrances are beginning as rain still comes down at DRV PNK stadium. Quite lovely that it has rom-com vibes tonight as David Beckham helps unveil Lionel Messi.

Real recognize real

This is the biggest moment.

Philadelphia Union head coach Jim Curtin speaks about how monumental a signing Messi is. Getting someone of Messi's stature while they can play and perform in top European leagues is a massive coupe for the league.

Here comes the lights show

It's an amazing display at DRV PNK stadium as the stage is being set for the big event.

Almost broadcast time

Scheduled to kick off at 8:30 it'll be quite the event.

Messi is far from the only star in the building

How miami made room for messi.

With Major League Soccer having a limited amount of Designated Player spots, Rodolfo Pizzaro had to be moved on to make room.

Questions loomed about how space would be made for the Designated Players that Miami are adding and one who was sure to be moved is attacking midfielder Pizzaro. Never quite fitting into the team during his time in Florida, the club was able to come to a mutual termination of his contract. By doing that, it allows Miami the flexibility to add Messi to the roster while Pizzaro will also go to a better situation personally. Pizzaro will now head to AEK Athens in Greece to reunite with his former coach Matías Almeyda who coached Pizzaro at Chivas Guadalajara  

Updates from the club

There's also a peek at an official Messi jersey

Jones on Messi's impact

As they say, the best is yet to come.

"We haven't even seen it yet. What we're seeing is still MLS and its regular works. The Messi effect will happen after. It's not going to happen until next year when you see the true vision of players saying yeah, I'm coming," Jones said to CBS Sports. "This turns everything on it's head where you're going to have another level. As it was David Beckham who started that first wave of players and international players who said, hey I'm going to start coming again, this is going to happen again on another level with Messi."

The goat is en route

Messi's unveiling is tonight but when could he debut?

July 19 - MLS All-Star Game:  While Messi isn't officially on the roster for the All-Star game against Arsenal, he could make a brief appearance at Audi Field in Washington D.C. on July 19th. We've seen players appear in this game before having not played all that much for their club, and with this being a premier event for Major League Soccer, it makes sense to want Messi in attendance if possible. 

July 21 - vs. Cruz Azul:  After winning the World Cup with Argentina, Messi has essentially been playing soccer nonstop since July of 2022 when PSG played in the Trophee des Championes against Nantes. For protecting his legs, he'd need at least a month of rest and to be eased back into playing which is why it has been reported that his debut for the club would likely be their Leagues Cup match against Cruz Azul on July 21 at DRV PNK Stadium.

Mas confined that the goal is for Messi to play in this match while there will also be work done to increase capacity on the stadium to prepare for his arrival.

"We have already contracted to fill in the corners of the stadium that should increase capacity by approximately 3,000 to 3,200 seats. We are gearing up to do that work in the next four weeks," Mas told  The Miami Herald . "Every game will be sold out. The demand for tickets has been 10 times what we can handle on a season ticket basis."

Not only does that allow Messi to debut at home while helping MLS promote a new competition against a well know Liga MX side but it also ensures that he gets appropriate rest before rolling into a summer of MLS. 

August 20 - vs. Charlotte FC:  After that match, there will be another break during which Messi can rest again before facing Charlotte FC at home on August 20 for his MLS league debut. By that match, it would be in standard preseason time for Messi and he'll be ready to help drive Miami to the playoffs with only 12 matches remaining in the regular season.

The weather delay is over!

Now it's time to start filling up DRV PNK stadium to get this show on the road! 

Cobi Jones on Messi

I had the chance to speak with former USMNT international and LA Galaxy midfielder during MLS All-Star week events of what the arrival of Messi means. Someone who played in LA and also crossed paths with David Beckham during his time in the league, Jones knows a thing or two about stars coming stateside. 

"I think people need to understand with Messi coming to the league what that means for the league or what Messi means. Everyone likes to say that MLS is a retirement league but Messi is a World Cup winner and an MVP so any way that you want to look at it, that messaging from some of the people that want to disparage doesn't quite work so well," Jones said speaking on Messi.

Fans have still yet to be allowed in

While the weather delay hasn't pushed back the unveiling as of yet, it will take a bit for fans to be allowed into the stadium so that festivities can get underway.

Beckhams in the building

Inter Miami co-owner and president David Beckham has officially arrived for the unveiling, and is joined by members of his family including wife Victoria and two of their children. It seems like they managed to avoid the inclement weather when they made it to DRV PNK Stadium.

Will Busquests join?

Inter Miami kicked off a busy Sunday by announcing the arrival of Sergio Busquets, Messi's former teammate at Barcelona. The club didn't immediately say if the midfielder would also be unveiled during today's event and didn't share a timeline on when Busquets would play his first match, but did say he would join his new team "in the coming days."

Stormy setting for Messi

DRV PNK Stadium is being hit by torrential rain and lightning as Miami preps to unveil Messi, which means fans aren't being allowed into the venue yet and are being asked to take shelter. Hopefully the weather clears up before the unveiling begins in around two hours' time.

How to watch

• Date : Sunday, July 16 |  Time : 8:35 p.m. ET
• Location : DRV PNK Stadium -- Fort Lauderdale, Florida
• TV:  TUDN  |  Live stream:  Apple TV, YouTube, Twitter

Messi mania is here!

Welcome in to the CBS Sports live blog of a massive, monumental moment on Sunday night -- the unveiling of Lionel Messi at Inter Miami. Yes, the day is here. The World Cup-winning superstar's contract with PSG expired last month, and he was set to sign with any team, turning down a massive offer from Saudi Arabia to join MLS' Inter Miami in a wild, league-changing move. Just months after winning the World Cup with Argentina, getting that missing piece of silverware for his resume, he know plays what are likely his final years of soccer in the United States. 

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The ‘Mes-si!’ chants started more than an hour before Copa America opener, and he sets up both goals

Argentina’s Lionel Messi, left, and Canada’s Stephen Eustaquio battle for the ball during a Copa America Group A soccer match in Atlanta, Thursday, June 20, 2024. (AP Photo/Jason Allen)

Argentina’s Lautaro Martinez, right, embraces teammate Lionel Messi at the end of a Copa America Group A soccer match against Canada in Atlanta, Thursday, June 20, 2024. (AP Photo/Mike Stewart)

Argentina’s Lionel Messi, 10, and Canada’s Jonathan Osorio battle for the ball during a Copa America Group A soccer match in Atlanta, Thursday, June 20, 2024. (AP Photo/Mike Stewart)

Argentina’s Lionel Messi reacts after missing a chance during a Copa America Group A soccer match against Canada in Atlanta, Thursday, June 20, 2024. (AP Photo/Mike Stewart)

Argentina’s Lionel Messi controls the ball during a Copa America Group A soccer match against Canada in Atlanta, Thursday, June 20, 2024. (AP Photo/Mike Stewart)

Argentina’s Lionel Messi blows a bubble ahead of a Copa America Group A soccer match against Canada in Atlanta, Thursday, June 20, 2024. (AP Photo/Mike Stewart)

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ATLANTA (AP) — The chants of “Mes-si! Mes-si! Mes-si!” started more than an hour before kickoff and kept up throughout Argentina’s 2-0 victory over Canada on Thursday night in the Copa America opener.

Lionel Messi set up both goals on a night he played in his record 35th Copa America match. His pass led to Julián Álvarez’s goal in the 49th minute and he extended his tournament assists record to 18 when he fed Lautaro Martínez in the 89th.

“You need someone like Leo to make that pass,” Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni said.

Atlanta’s Mercedes-Benz Stadium was transformed into a sea of blue and white jerseys as if it was an Argentina home game. Messi remained at 108 international goals, despite several good scoring opportunities. His 13 career Copa America goals are four shy of the record.

“I feel like we’ve had a good match plan and we’ve executed a lot of good things but he’s so good,” Canada coach Jesse Marsch said.

The match was Messi’s last as a 36 year old. He turns 37 on Monday, and Argentina plays Chile the following day at East Rutherford, New Jersey. The Albiceleste finish the first round against Peru on June 29 at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens, Florida, not far from Messi’s club home in Fort Lauderdale with Major League Soccer’s Inter Miami. The July 14 final also is at Hard Rock.

Messi failed to convert on a pair of excellent chances. Goalkeeper Maxime Crépeau made a diving stop in the 65th minute and Messi’s attempt off the rebound was blocked by the head of defender Derek Cornelius. Messi put a chip wide after he came in alone on Crépeau in the 79th.

“On the field everything goes so fast. Obviously you know Messi is there,” Crépeau said.

AP soccer: https://apnews.com/hub/soccer

‘The Lionel Messi Experience’ is an interactive showcase of all things Messi

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Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo are the best soccer players of their generation — and maybe any generation — and there really isn’t much separating the two.

Ronaldo has scored more goals, but Messi has won more World Cups. Ronaldo has more Champions League titles, but Messi has more league championships. Ronaldo has his own self-funded museum ... and now Messi has “ The Messi Experience: A Dream Come True ,” a unique multimedia look at the Argentine’s life and career.

The Los Angeles exhibition, which opens Friday in a 30,000-square-foot studio and event space near where the Glendale and Golden State freeways intersect, takes visitors on an immersive, interactive exploration of everything Messi, from a recreation of his childhood bedroom in his family’s humble home in Rosario, Argentina, through his triumphs with Barcelona and the Argentina national team.

At one point in the exhibition, a phone rings and the speaker on the other end of the line invites the 13-year-old Messi to come to Spain, launching his unparalleled career. In another place the exhibition explores his short-lived and emotional decision to resign from the national team.

“It’s super important that when you learn about his life you know it wasn’t all great,” said David Rosenfeld, co-founder of Primo Entertainment, a Miami-based company that worked with Messi to put the exhibition together. “So he takes you on that roller coaster. The empowerment that we’re trying to show here, especially for kids, is never give up and it could happen. That’s kind of the message.”

The exhibition features nine interactive installations as well as thematic installations and physical games. Rosenfeld said planning for “The Messi Experience” began more than 2 ½ years ago, before the player’s greatest triumph, Argentina’s World Cup win in Qatar in 2022, and before his move to Inter Miami and MLS last summer.

But those events necessarily forced some alterations. The tour opens with a recreation of Argentina’s victory parade through the streets of Buenos Aires while in another room there is a much-larger-than-life replica of the World Cup trophy Messi kissed after Argentina defeated France on penalty kicks.

Lionel Messi transforms L.A. into a star-studded celebration of soccer

In front of 27,642 fans, many wearing Lionel Messi jerseys, the Galaxy settle for a tie in their season opener when Messi scores late for Inter Miami.

Feb. 25, 2024

“We would have done it regardless,” Rosenfeld said. “Obviously him winning the World Cup and coming to Miami exponentially helped everything. But he was already Messi.

“We were confident with the fact that he was such a big brand and he was such a big athlete, this was going to be successful.”

Rosenfeld said Messi did not oversee the design of the exhibition nor what’s included, but he did participate in the creation of certain installations and signed off on the project.

“It’s an experience based on his life and his career so he had to have a hand in what’s told, how it’s told,” Rosenfeld said. “He was a big part of it.”

An identical “Messi Experience” opened April 25 in Miami and has drawn more than 50,000 visitors, Rosenfeld said. Another exhibition will open in Buenos Aires next month.

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Kevin Baxter writes about soccer and hockey for the Los Angeles Times. He has covered seven World Cups, four Olympic Games, six World Series and a Super Bowl and has contributed to three Pulitzer Prize-winning series at The Times and Miami Herald. An essay he wrote in fifth grade was voted best in the class. He has a cool dog.

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Lionel Messi could be playing in his final tournament with Argentina at Copa America

The Copa America could mark Lionel Messi’s final chapter with Argentina’s national soccer team

BUENOS AIRES, Argentina -- It's sad but true, Copa America could mark Lionel Messi's final chapter with Argentina's national soccer team.

The World Cup winner will turn 37 during the tournament in the United States, which kicks off Thursday. He's clearly past his peak at Inter Miami after two decades of playing at the highest level in Europe.

Messi has not set a date for his retirement and has kept the door open to playing in a sixth World Cup in 2026 to defend his title from Qatar. But he already recognizes his shortcomings.

“I don’t think about that yet. The moment I feel that I am not going to help my team, I will retire,” Messi said in March in an interview with Saudi broadcaster Riyad Season. “I always ate well, trained. But as I grew I became aware that the physical effort we make is getting harder. As you grow old, things become more difficult.”

Last year, the eight-time Ballon d'Or winner struggled with muscular injuries while playing in MLS and for Argentina. That didn't change much in 2024.

Messi has shown he enjoys going out at night with his wife, Antonella, and his friends in Miami. He spends time with his three children, starts new businesses and lives as if soccer is slowly becoming a smaller part of his life.

Still, he has 12 goals and 13 assists for Inter Miami this season.

“I have a good time at the club. I am lucky to have teammates and friends (Luis Suárez, Sergio Busquets and Jordi Alba, all former Barcelona players) by my side,” Messi told ESPN. ”I have a good time in the national team, where I have teammates and friends, too. And I enjoy the little details that I know that when I don’t play anymore, I’m going to miss.”

Ángel di Maria, a 36-year-old winger who has played alongside Messi for years with the national team, is sure to bid farewell to international soccer after the Copa America. That has also brought more questions about whether the team's biggest star will remain on the squad.

“As long as I feel like I’m fine and I can continue contributing, I’m going to do it. Today, the only thing I think about is getting to the Copa America well and being able to compete in it,” Messi told the Star Plus platform in December. “Fighting for it again, as we always did, trying to be champions.”

Argentina’s all-time top scorer and the national team's leader with 26 World Cup appearances is also seeking records in the continental competition.

Messi, who won the South American championship in 2021, wants to become the Copa America's leading scorer. He has 13 goals in six editions, four behind Norberto Méndez of Argentina and Zizinho of Brazil with 17.

He also wants to be the player with most appearances in the Copa America, a record he currently shares with former Chile goalkeeper Sergio Livingston, both with 34 games.

Messi's teammates don't want to see him go.

“We’ll see how long, but while he’s here we’re going to enjoy it to the fullest,” Argentina defender Cristian Romero said. “We grew up watching him. We are part of those tournaments."

AP sports: https://apnews.com/sports

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Confident denmark look to move on against serbia at euro 2024.

Denmark head into their final Euro 2024 group match on Tuesday full of confidence knowing that victory will propel them into the knockout round, while Serbia hope to build on a last-gasp draw against Slovenia that kept their tournament hopes alive.