Get ready for some enthusiasm about soccer in the United States. Lionel Messi is coming to Miami.
The superstar footballer announced Wednesday his intention of playing for Inter Miami, turning down offers from Barcelona and Saudi Arabia. The 2022 FIFA World Cup champion told Mundo Deportivo in an exclusive interview that though it is not 100% final, he has made the decision to go to Miami.
Inter Miami is part-owned by David Beckham, and this potential deal is arguably the biggest marketing opportunity for soccer in the United States since Beckham signed for the Los Angeles team Galaxy in 2007.
MLS league sponsors Apple and Adidas are also working on separate deals with the Argentine legend, according to the Miami Herald.
Messi’s move to Inter Miami could mean a big win for AppleTV as well. Having one of the world’s best soccer players join an MLS team could make AppleTV Plus’ MLS Season Pass Subscription appeal to a broader, international audience, as assessed by The Verge.