Lionel Messi will officially leave Paris Saint-Germain on June 30, when his contract expires. The 35-year-old also intends to depart Europe as he’ll sign with MLS side Inter Miami.
Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola recently spoke with the media and shared his reaction to Messi going to the United States to possibly finish his football career.
“I am out of this situation; you know more about it than I do,” Guardiola said (h/t GOAL). “If in the end Leo decides to go to the United States, I am sure he will do well, and that is the best decision for him. I ignore the inner gossip. And the money over there is very good; I won’t comment about it.”
Along with Inter Miami, FC Barcelona, and Al-Hilal were reportedly in the mix for the 2022 FIFA World Cup winner. Nonetheless, it seems the offer to head to the MLS was more lucrative, considering many perks come with joining a club in the United States.
The Argentine’s contract in Miami is said to be worth between $125 million-$150 million (£100 million-£120 million).
Additionally, MLS sponsors Apple and Adidas are working on deals to see base salary transcended by a revenue share scheme. Messi could also have a stake in Inter Miami’s ownership once he retires.
Messi will be heading to an Inter Miami club that desperately needs him as they’re at the bottom of the Eastern Conference standings. The South Florida-based club has 15 points, so they’ll need Messi and more to turn their situation around and clinch a playoff spot.
