The owner of Inter Miami reveals the date of Messi’s first match

Inter Miami owner Jorge Mas told the “Miami Herald” newspaper on Tuesday that Lionel Messi will play his first match with the NBA team on July 21 when he hosts Mexico’s Cruz Azul in the opening match of the North American League Cup in Fort Lauderdale.

Messi and Inter Miami agreed on the terms of the deal and are putting the finishing touches after the Argentine star announced this month his desire to join the American club.

The 35-year-old will sign a two-and-a-half-year contract worth between $50 million and $60 million annually, with a clause allowing for an extension until 2026, according to the Miami Herald.

And with the seven-time Ballon d’Or winner, soccer in the United States will get a massive boost.

Mas described Messi’s arrival as a “defining historical moment” as the Professional League aspires to become one of the best tournaments in the world.

Mass said: I think people will talk about football before Messi arrives and beyond in the United States. Lionel Messi will come to this country to collect titles and cups. We must all seize the opportunity.

Messi’s announcement that he intends to transfer his footballing talents to South Beach sent Inter Miami ticket prices skyrocketing on the ticket market as fans seek a chance to see the Argentine great on American soil.