Lionel Messi doesn’t regret joining Inter Miami, and he’s excited to take on a new task.
The 36-year-old arrived in the United States on Tuesday, a day before a special event on Sunday where he will be introduced as an Inter Miami player.
“I’m glad we made the choice we did. Messi told Argentinian TV on Tuesday, “I’m ready and excited to take on the new challenge.”
“My mind and attitude won’t change, and I’ll try, no matter where I am, to give my all for myself and the club and keep playing at the highest level.”
The club is getting ready for a special event at the DRV PNK Stadium in Fort Lauderdale to honor the seven-time Ballon d’Or winner.
“Fans will be able to enjoy a fun night of entertainment, speeches on the field, and more,” the club said in a statement, adding that season ticket users would not have to pay for seats.
The World Cup winner will play with Sergio Busquets, who he played with at Barcelona, and Gerardo Martino, who coached Argentina when Messi won the World Cup.
Messi is likely to play his first game for the club on July 21, when they play Cruz Azul in the Leagues Cup.
Messi is the most famous player to ever join MLS. He is also the best player to come to the U.S. since Pele joined the New York Cosmos in 1975.
The MLS hopes that Messi will make the league much more well-known and increase the number of people who sign up for their live broadcast deal with Apple TV. Ticket prices for games where Messi is expected to play have already gone through the roof.
Messi’s arrival will also add to the excitement about soccer before the United States, Canada, and Mexico host the World Cup in 2026.