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<p>Kylian Mbappe wished his former PSG teammate Lionel Messi on his 36th birthday in a heartfelt note on social media. From rubbing shoulders and sharing the dressing room for two seasons in France to playing against each other in the 2022 FIFA World Cup Final in Qatar, Messi and Mbappe had some rapport on and off the field.</p>

<p>On Messi’s 36th birthday on Saturday, June 24, Mbappe, on his Instagram handle, thanked the Argentine superstar and even said he learned a lot from Messi in those two years. The French striker also wished his ex-teammate best wishes for his new venture.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-concacaf-bans-four-players-following-brawl-in-usmnt-mexico-nations-league-semifinal-608274">Football: CONCACAF bans four players following brawl in USMNT-Mexico Nations League semifinal</a></p>

<p>"Happy birthday legend. Thank you for these 2 years together in Paris, I learned a lot from you as a player, partner, opponent and man. For that alone I am thankful. Good luck on your new adventure," Mbappe wrote on Instagram.</p>

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<p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/Ct4Ed--MzkB/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none;" target="_blank">A post shared by Kylian Mbappé (@k.mbappe)</a></p>
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<p>Upon joining the French club from FC Barcelona after spending nearly two decades at Camp Nou, Messi’s two-year tenure with PSG didn’t end the way everyone had hoped for.</p>

<p>After PSG failed to win the Champions League during this time – the same purpose for which Messi joined the club, things started to fall apart between the two. Also, his casual visit to Saudi Arabia earlier this year, worked as a catalyst as he got suspended for the same. Though he issued a public apology for his unapproved visit to the Gulf nation, Messi decided not to renew his contract further.</p>

<p>After PSG lifted the Ligue 1 title this season, Messi, who during his stay in Paris, was often booed by home fans, decided to join USA’s Inter Miami despite several offers from Saudi Arabia and his former club Barcelona.</p>

<h2>Messi on not joining Barcelona</h2>

<p>After joining the MLS team on a free transfer, Messi disclosed why he didn’t go elsewhere. The World Cup winner with Argentina revealed the only reason he didn’t rejoin Barcelona was because of a lack of surety from the club, and after how his exit unfolded in the first place in 2021, Messi feared suffering the same fate again.</p>

<p>On the other hand, Mbappe, the 2018 World Champion, didn’t sign a contract with French giants, and though rumours of him joining Real Madrid this summer did rounds on the internet, Mbappe put everything under the map and confirmed he would stay at PSG for one more season.</p>

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Kylian Mbappe wished his former PSG teammate Lionel Messi on his 36th birthday in a heartfelt note on social media. From rubbing shoulders and sharing the dressing room for two seasons in France to playing against each other in the 2022 FIFA World Cup Final in Qatar, Messi and Mbappe had some rapport on and off the field.

Kylian Mbappe wished his former PSG teammate Lionel Messi on his 36th birthday in a heartfelt note on social media. From rubbing shoulders and sharing the dressing room for two seasons in France to playing against each other in the 2022 FIFA World Cup Final in Qatar, Messi and Mbappe had some rapport on and off the field. On Messi’s 36th birthday on Saturday, June 24, Mbappe, on his Instagram handle, thanked the Argentine superstar and even said he learned a lot from Messi in those two years. The French striker also wished his ex-teammate best wishes for his new venture. ALSO READ: Football: CONCACAF bans four players following brawl in USMNT-Mexico Nations League semifinal "Happy birthday legend. Thank you for these 2 years together in Paris, I learned a lot from you as a player, partner, opponent and man. For that alone I am thankful. Good luck on your new adventure," Mbappe wrote on Instagram. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Kylian Mbappé (@k.mbappe) × Upon joining the French club from FC Barcelona after spending nearly two decades at Camp Nou, Messi’s two-year tenure with PSG didn’t end the way everyone had hoped for. After PSG failed to win the Champions League during this time – the same purpose for which Messi joined the club, things started to fall apart between the two. Also, his casual visit to Saudi Arabia earlier this year, worked as a catalyst as he got suspended for the same. Though he issued a public apology for his unapproved visit to the Gulf nation, Messi decided not to renew his contract further. After PSG lifted the Ligue 1 title this season, Messi, who during his stay in Paris, was often booed by home fans, decided to join USA’s Inter Miami despite several offers from Saudi Arabia and his former club Barcelona. Messi on not joining Barcelona After joining the MLS team on a free transfer, Messi disclosed why he didn’t go elsewhere. The World Cup winner with Argentina revealed the only reason he didn’t rejoin Barcelona was because of a lack of surety from the club, and after how his exit unfolded in the first place in 2021, Messi feared suffering the same fate again. On the other hand, Mbappe, the 2018 World Champion, didn’t sign a contract with French giants, and though rumours of him joining Real Madrid this summer did rounds on the internet, Mbappe put everything under the map and confirmed he would stay at PSG for one more season. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

'I learned a lot from you as a player...': Kylian Mbappe's heartfelt birthday post for Lionel Messi

<p>Inter Miami announced on Friday they are signing former Spain and Barcelona midfielder Sergio Busquets to team-up with Lionel Messi at the Major League Soccer club.</p>

<p>Messi said earlier this month he was moving to Miami and he will now be re-united with his former Barca team-mate Busquets.&nbsp;Inter Miami posted a tweet&nbsp;heralding the arrival of the player.</p>

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<p>"Si, Busi" read the twitter post, referring to Busquets’ nickname. The tweet included quotes praising Busquets from several people in the game, including former Spain coach Vicente del Bosque.</p>

<p>Busquets said in May that he would leave Barcelona in the summer at the end of his contract.</p>

<p>The 34-year-old made 143 appearances for Spain before announcing his retirement from the team in December.</p>

<p>Busquets has been a central part of Barcelona's successes in the past 15 years, including nine Spanish league titles and three Champions League triumphs.</p>

<p>Busquets played as pivot behind Andres Iniesta and Xavi Hernandez in an iconic midfield trio, and the three of them also won the World Cup with Spain in 2010.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Inter Miami owner Jorge Mas said this week that the club expected to make between three to five new signings to join Messi.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ashes-2023-zak-crawley-makes-bold-prediction-for-lords-test-predicts-england-to-win-by-this-big-margin-607884">Ashes 2023: Zak Crawley makes BOLD prediction for Lord's Test, predicts England will win by THIS margin</a></p>

<p>"We've been preparing our roster for Messi's arrival in '23, so we left an enormous amount of flexibility," Mas told the Herald.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We will be making additional signings during the summer window, more than what people anticipate... I can say we will potentially be making between three and five signings."</p>

<p>Busquets is likely to occupy one of the three 'Designated Player' spots, an MLS designation for high-earning players, whose wages do not count against the salary cap.</p>

<p>Inter Miami have also been linked with another Spain and Barcelona favourite, left-back Jordi Alba.</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

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Inter Miami announced on Friday they are signing former Spain and Barcelona midfielder Sergio Busquets to team-up with Lionel Messi at the Major League Soccer club.

Inter Miami announced on Friday they are signing former Spain and Barcelona midfielder Sergio Busquets to team-up with Lionel Messi at the Major League Soccer club. Messi said earlier this month he was moving to Miami and he will now be re-united with his former Barca team-mate Busquets. Inter Miami posted a tweet heralding the arrival of the player. pic.twitter.com/Mil6KD4l7M — Inter Miami CF (@InterMiamiCF) June 23, 2023 × "Si, Busi" read the twitter post, referring to Busquets’ nickname. The tweet included quotes praising Busquets from several people in the game, including former Spain coach Vicente del Bosque. Busquets said in May that he would leave Barcelona in the summer at the end of his contract. The 34-year-old made 143 appearances for Spain before announcing his retirement from the team in December. Busquets has been a central part of Barcelona's successes in the past 15 years, including nine Spanish league titles and three Champions League triumphs. Busquets played as pivot behind Andres Iniesta and Xavi Hernandez in an iconic midfield trio, and the three of them also won the World Cup with Spain in 2010. Inter Miami owner Jorge Mas said this week that the club expected to make between three to five new signings to join Messi. ALSO READ | Ashes 2023: Zak Crawley makes BOLD prediction for Lord's Test, predicts England will win by THIS margin "We've been preparing our roster for Messi's arrival in '23, so we left an enormous amount of flexibility," Mas told the Herald. "We will be making additional signings during the summer window, more than what people anticipate... I can say we will potentially be making between three and five signings." Busquets is likely to occupy one of the three 'Designated Player' spots, an MLS designation for high-earning players, whose wages do not count against the salary cap. Inter Miami have also been linked with another Spain and Barcelona favourite, left-back Jordi Alba. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Football transfers: Sergio Busquets set to join Lionel Messi at Inter Miami

<p>Football superstar Lionel Messi shocked the world when he decided to join USA's Major League Soccer (MLS) after his departure from Ligue 1's Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) became a confirmed news. Messi had plans to join his previous club Barcelona but, eventually went on to join former England star and co-owner David Beckham's Inter Miami.</p>

<p>The 2022 World Cup winner seems happy with his decision and is looking forward to face this new challenge. Messi will join Inter Miami once his contract with PSG gets over on June 30.</p>

<p>"I'm well," he said to Argentinian TV Publica. "Initially, we had a different idea (to return to Barcelona). We're happy with the decision we have taken. I'm ready and eager to face this new challenge, this change," said Messi.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ashes-2023-josh-hazlewood-opines-on-englands-bazball-approach-id-say-its-a-good-fun-challenge-to-have-605442">Ashes 2023: Josh Hazlewood opines on England's Bazball approach, 'I'd say it's a good fun challenge to have'</a></p>

<p>"(The decision) was an important step but at the same time, I was aware of what it meant, of what I was doing. We're happy," he added.</p>

<p>Recently, Messi had also announced that he won't be playing the next football world cup. The seven-time Ballon d'Or winner, however, scored the fastest goal of his career, scoring after 79 seconds as Argentina beat Australia 2-0 in a friendly on June 15.</p>

<p>"If I'm being honest, had we not won the World Cup, I would no longer be playing for the national team," Messi said. "I can't leave the national team as a world champion. I want to enjoy this," he further added.</p>

<p>Before winning the World Cup in 2022, Messi had lost three&nbsp;finals in Copa America Cup when Argentina&nbsp;made it to the winner-takes-all game in 2007, 2015, &amp; 2016. Argentina eventually won the Copa America in 2021, beating Brazil in the final.</p>

<p>"I didn't cry but I suffered a lot," Messi said of lost finals. "I had very hard times, but I always had the desire to win something with the national team. I knew in my mind that I would achieve it.</p>

<p>"Even if I didn't, I had to try. Having won everything at individual and club level, not to have been able to [win a major title] with the national team would have meant that I would be missing something.</p>

<p>On his World Cup victory, where he was voted Player of the Tournament for seven goals and three assists in seven games, Messi said that he enjoyed it a lot as he knew it was his last one.</p>

<p>"I enjoyed the [Qatar] World Cup more than the previous ones because I knew it could be my last," he said. "I had complete confidence in the group," added the soccer star.</p>

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Football superstar Lionel Messi shocked the world when he decided to join USA's Major League Soccer (MLS) after his departure from Ligue 1's Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) became a confirmed news.

Football superstar Lionel Messi shocked the world when he decided to join USA's Major League Soccer (MLS) after his departure from Ligue 1's Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) became a confirmed news. Messi had plans to join his previous club Barcelona but, eventually went on to join former England star and co-owner David Beckham's Inter Miami. The 2022 World Cup winner seems happy with his decision and is looking forward to face this new challenge. Messi will join Inter Miami once his contract with PSG gets over on June 30. "I'm well," he said to Argentinian TV Publica. "Initially, we had a different idea (to return to Barcelona). We're happy with the decision we have taken. I'm ready and eager to face this new challenge, this change," said Messi. Also Read: Ashes 2023: Josh Hazlewood opines on England's Bazball approach, 'I'd say it's a good fun challenge to have' "(The decision) was an important step but at the same time, I was aware of what it meant, of what I was doing. We're happy," he added. Recently, Messi had also announced that he won't be playing the next football world cup. The seven-time Ballon d'Or winner, however, scored the fastest goal of his career, scoring after 79 seconds as Argentina beat Australia 2-0 in a friendly on June 15. "If I'm being honest, had we not won the World Cup, I would no longer be playing for the national team," Messi said. "I can't leave the national team as a world champion. I want to enjoy this," he further added. Before winning the World Cup in 2022, Messi had lost three finals in Copa America Cup when Argentina made it to the winner-takes-all game in 2007, 2015, & 2016. Argentina eventually won the Copa America in 2021, beating Brazil in the final. "I didn't cry but I suffered a lot," Messi said of lost finals. "I had very hard times, but I always had the desire to win something with the national team. I knew in my mind that I would achieve it. "Even if I didn't, I had to try. Having won everything at individual and club level, not to have been able to [win a major title] with the national team would have meant that I would be missing something. On his World Cup victory, where he was voted Player of the Tournament for seven goals and three assists in seven games, Messi said that he enjoyed it a lot as he knew it was his last one. "I enjoyed the [Qatar] World Cup more than the previous ones because I knew it could be my last," he said. "I had complete confidence in the group," added the soccer star. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Lionel Messi READY and EAGER for Inter Miami challenge in MLS

<p>Lionel Messi will sign for Major League Soccer side Inter Miami, the player said Wednesday in interviews with Spanish media, choosing the United States as his next destination over a Barcelona reunion or blockbuster deal to play in Saudi Arabia.</p>

<p>The Argentine forward, 35, has spent the last two seasons at Paris Saint-Germain, playing his final game for the club on Saturday, after moving from Barcelona in 2021, where he spent the majority of his career.</p>

<p>Messi said that he did not want to have to wait for Barcelona to find a formula to be able to sign him given their financial situation -- they were unable to keep him before his move to PSG, leading to a tearful departure.</p>

<p>"I was afraid that it would happen again," Messi told Spanish newspapers Diario Sport and Mundo Deportivo.</p>

<p>"I've taken the decision that I am going to Miami, I don't have (the deal) 100 percent sealed or maybe there's something left to do, but we decided to continue our path there.</p>

<p>"(I decided) to leave Europe, it's true that I had offers from another European team but I didn't even think about it because in Europe, my idea was only to go to Barcelona.</p>

<p>"After winning the World Cup and not being able to go to Barca, it's time to go to MLS to live football in a different way and enjoy my day to day life more.</p>

<p>"Obviously with the same responsibility and desire to win, and to do things well, but with more calm."</p>

<p>Messi is a seven-time Ballon d'Or winner and is expected to earn the individual accolade once more after leading Argentina to World Cup glory in Qatar in December 2022.</p>

<p>The football world was eagerly awaiting Messi's decision after PSG confirmed this week the playmaker, widely considered the best player in the history of football, was departing.</p>

<p>Inter Miami, co-owned by former England international David Beckham and founded in 2018, sacked coach Phil Neville last week with the team bottom of the Eastern Conference -- with Argentine Javier Morales taking over on an interim basis.</p>

<p>The romance of a Barcelona return and prospect of eye-watering riches in Saudi Arabia fell by the wayside as Messi opted to join MLS, with sun-soaked Miami a city he has holidayed in on previous occasions.</p>

<p>Some reports say key MLS sponsors including sportswear brand Adidas and Apple TV, who own the league's domestic broadcasting rights, may be contributing to his deal.</p>


Lionel Messi will sign for Major League Soccer side Inter Miami, the player said Wednesday in interviews with Spanish media, choosing the United States as his next destination over a Barcelona reunion or blockbuster deal to play in Saudi Arabia.

Lionel Messi will sign for Major League Soccer side Inter Miami, the player said Wednesday in interviews with Spanish media, choosing the United States as his next destination over a Barcelona reunion or blockbuster deal to play in Saudi Arabia. The Argentine forward, 35, has spent the last two seasons at Paris Saint-Germain, playing his final game for the club on Saturday, after moving from Barcelona in 2021, where he spent the majority of his career. Messi said that he did not want to have to wait for Barcelona to find a formula to be able to sign him given their financial situation -- they were unable to keep him before his move to PSG, leading to a tearful departure. "I was afraid that it would happen again," Messi told Spanish newspapers Diario Sport and Mundo Deportivo. "I've taken the decision that I am going to Miami, I don't have (the deal) 100 percent sealed or maybe there's something left to do, but we decided to continue our path there. "(I decided) to leave Europe, it's true that I had offers from another European team but I didn't even think about it because in Europe, my idea was only to go to Barcelona. "After winning the World Cup and not being able to go to Barca, it's time to go to MLS to live football in a different way and enjoy my day to day life more. "Obviously with the same responsibility and desire to win, and to do things well, but with more calm." Messi is a seven-time Ballon d'Or winner and is expected to earn the individual accolade once more after leading Argentina to World Cup glory in Qatar in December 2022. The football world was eagerly awaiting Messi's decision after PSG confirmed this week the playmaker, widely considered the best player in the history of football, was departing. Inter Miami, co-owned by former England international David Beckham and founded in 2018, sacked coach Phil Neville last week with the team bottom of the Eastern Conference -- with Argentine Javier Morales taking over on an interim basis. The romance of a Barcelona return and prospect of eye-watering riches in Saudi Arabia fell by the wayside as Messi opted to join MLS, with sun-soaked Miami a city he has holidayed in on previous occasions. Some reports say key MLS sponsors including sportswear brand Adidas and Apple TV, who own the league's domestic broadcasting rights, may be contributing to his deal.

Lionel Messi announces move to Inter Miami

Lionel Messi has completed a move to David Beckham's Inter Miami. The seven-time World player of the year will join the MLS side after his contract at Paris Saint-Germain expired. Has he made the right decision after rejecting a $400M-a-year offer from Saudi Arabia?

Messi joins Inter Miami after PSG exit | WION Sports Xtra

<p>Argentina star Lionel Messi has decided to join the Major League Soccer side Inter Miami. This move comes after months of speculation on Messi’s future. There were a lot of rumours about the former Paris-Saint Germain star going back to Barcelona. There was also a lot of talk swirling around the seven-time Ballon d’Or winner’s move to Saudi Arabia. But, Messi ultimately opted for Inter Miami. As per the latest information received, the Messi effect has started showing in the United States, with the ticket prices and sales rising exponentially.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Within a few hours of Lionel Messi’s announcement, the news caused an uproar in the United States. The match tickets for Inter Miami started soaring in sales and prices, with the price for the cheapest ticket in the secondary market being up by 1,000 percent.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to a report in <a href="https://www.forbes.com/sites/brianbushard/2023/06/07/the-messi-effect-inter-miami-ticket-prices-jump-1000-after-messi-reportedly-joins-mls/?sh=49a8eb14261d)">Forbes</a>, the cheapest ticket for an Inter Miami League Cup match against Cruz Azul has jumped from $29 (Rs 2,3394) to $459 (Rs 37,891.60). This match on July 21 will be Messi’s first match with the club. Furthermore, the get-in price for Miami’s home match against New York Red Bulls, Messi’s first MLS match, has also jumped from $30 (Rs 2,476.58) to $512 (Rs 42,266.88).&nbsp;</p>

<p>Messi’s move to the MLS could be a big opportunity for the Inter Miami franchise and the league. Inter Miami’s followers shot up from around 1 million to 4.6 million following Messi’s announcement about leaving PSG. This also led to an adverse effect for PSG, who have now lost over a million followers since the Qatar World Cup winner left the team.</p>

<p>Speaking of his decision to go to Inter Miami, Messi said, "I've taken the decision that I am going to Miami, I don't have (the deal) 100 percent sealed or maybe there's something left to do, but we decided to continue our path there. (I decided) to leave Europe, it's true that I had offers from another European team but I didn't even think about it because in Europe, my idea was only to go to Barcelona. After winning the World Cup and not being able to go to Barca, it's time to go to MLS to live football in a different way and enjoy my day-to-day life more.”</p>


Argentina star Lionel Messi has decided to join the Major League Soccer side Inter Miami. This move comes after months of speculation on Messi’s future. There were a lot of rumours about the former Paris-Saint Germain star going back to Barcelona.

Argentina star Lionel Messi has decided to join the Major League Soccer side Inter Miami. This move comes after months of speculation on Messi’s future. There were a lot of rumours about the former Paris-Saint Germain star going back to Barcelona. There was also a lot of talk swirling around the seven-time Ballon d’Or winner’s move to Saudi Arabia. But, Messi ultimately opted for Inter Miami. As per the latest information received, the Messi effect has started showing in the United States, with the ticket prices and sales rising exponentially. Within a few hours of Lionel Messi’s announcement, the news caused an uproar in the United States. The match tickets for Inter Miami started soaring in sales and prices, with the price for the cheapest ticket in the secondary market being up by 1,000 percent. According to a report in Forbes, the cheapest ticket for an Inter Miami League Cup match against Cruz Azul has jumped from $29 (Rs 2,3394) to $459 (Rs 37,891.60). This match on July 21 will be Messi’s first match with the club. Furthermore, the get-in price for Miami’s home match against New York Red Bulls, Messi’s first MLS match, has also jumped from $30 (Rs 2,476.58) to $512 (Rs 42,266.88). Messi’s move to the MLS could be a big opportunity for the Inter Miami franchise and the league. Inter Miami’s followers shot up from around 1 million to 4.6 million following Messi’s announcement about leaving PSG. This also led to an adverse effect for PSG, who have now lost over a million followers since the Qatar World Cup winner left the team. Speaking of his decision to go to Inter Miami, Messi said, "I've taken the decision that I am going to Miami, I don't have (the deal) 100 percent sealed or maybe there's something left to do, but we decided to continue our path there. (I decided) to leave Europe, it's true that I had offers from another European team but I didn't even think about it because in Europe, my idea was only to go to Barcelona. After winning the World Cup and not being able to go to Barca, it's time to go to MLS to live football in a different way and enjoy my day-to-day life more.”

Inter Miami sees ‘Messi effect’ after transfer move, ticket prices jump 1,000%

<p>Lionel Messi on Wednesday said he will sign for Major League Soccer side Inter Miami, choosing the United States as his next destination over a Barcelona reunion or blockbuster deal to play in Saudi Arabia. The Argentine forward, 35, has spent the last two seasons at Paris Saint-Germain, playing his final game for the club on Saturday, after moving from Barcelona in 2021, where he spent the majority of his career.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">🚨🚨 BREAKING: Lionel Messi to Inter Miami, here we go! The decision has been made and it will be announced by Leo in the next hours <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/InterMiami?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#InterMiami</a><br />
<br />
🇺🇸 Messi will play in MLS. No more chances for Barcelona/Al Hilal despite trying to make it happen.<br />
<br />
𝐇𝐄𝐑𝐄 𝐖𝐄 𝐆𝐎<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Messi?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Messi</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MLS?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MLS</a> <a href="https://t.co/OTYWIlEzNc">pic.twitter.com/OTYWIlEzNc</a></p>
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) <a href="https://twitter.com/FabrizioRomano/status/1666481587834220546?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 7, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>MLS and Inter Miami confirmed the news on social media, although the American League noted: "Work remains to finalise a formal agreement".</p>

<p>"I've taken the decision that I am going to Miami, I don't have (the deal) 100 per cent sealed or maybe there's something left to do, but we decided to continue our path there," Messi told Spanish newspapers Diario Sport and Mundo Deportivo. "After winning the World Cup and not being able to go to Barca, it's time to go to MLS to live football in a different way and enjoy my day-to-day life more."</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/lionel-messi-announces-inter-miami-move-601923">Lionel Messi announces Inter Miami move</a></p>

<p>Messi is a seven-time Ballon d'Or winner and is expected to earn the individual accolade once more after leading Argentina to World Cup glory in Qatar in December.</p>

<p>The football world was eagerly awaiting Messi's decision after PSG confirmed this week the playmaker, widely considered the best player in the history of football, was departing.</p>

<p>The romance of a Barcelona return and the prospect of eye-watering riches in Saudi Arabia fell by the wayside as Messi opted to join MLS, with Miami a city he has holidayed in on previous occasions.</p>

<p>"If it had been a question of money, I would have gone to Saudi Arabia or elsewhere," said Messi. "It seemed a lot of money and the truth is that my decision went another way and not for money."</p>

<p>Inter Miami, co-owned by former England international David Beckham and founded in 2018, sacked coach Phil Neville last week with the team at the bottom of the Eastern Conference.</p>

<p>Some reports say key MLS sponsors including Adidas and Apple TV, who own the league's domestic broadcasting rights, may be contributing to his deal.<br />
<br />
Messi, who turns 36 later this month, is now set to finish his club career outside the spotlight of top-level European football.</p>

<h2>- ‘Would have loved to return to Barcelona’ -</h2>

<p>Messi said he would have loved to return to Barcelona but was afraid that the financial complications which stopped the Catalan club extending his deal in 2021 would interfere again.</p>

<p>"I really wanted to come back, I was really looking forward to it," continued Messi. "But, on the other hand, after having lived through what I lived through, after the exit I had... I didn't want to go through the same situation again and have to wait to see what was going to happen.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Messi: "I really wanted to return to Barça, I had that dream. But after what happened two years ago, I did not want to be in the same situation again, leaving my future in the hands of someone else...". 🔵🔴 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/FCB?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#FCB</a><br />
<br />
"I wanted to take my own decision, thinking of me and my family". <a href="https://t.co/u0A7xs2XiK">pic.twitter.com/u0A7xs2XiK</a></p>
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) <a href="https://twitter.com/FabrizioRomano/status/1666524588673495040?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 7, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>"I didn't want to leave my future in the hands of others. Somehow, I wanted to make my own decision for myself, for my family."</p>

<p>Messi said he plans to live in Barcelona again in the future and be involved with his former side in some way.</p>

<p>"I don't know at what moment and when, but hopefully I can return one day to contribute something to the club," he said.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Messi: "I'd love to be close to Barcelona. I will live in Barcelona again, it's already decided. I hope to help the club one day, because it's the club I love". 🔵🔴 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/FCB?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#FCB</a><br />
<br />
"I wanna thank the Barça fans for all their support. And yes, I'd love to be again here... definitely". <a href="https://t.co/NmESEve1OF">pic.twitter.com/NmESEve1OF</a></p>
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) <a href="https://twitter.com/FabrizioRomano/status/1666534583179812870?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 7, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>Before that, though, Messi will give the growth of football in the United States another jolt of momentum with his arrival, which comes just three years ahead of the 2026 World Cup being co-hosted in the United States, Canada and Mexico.</p>

<p>Having spent the past two seasons of his career at a lavishly funded PSG side, Messi will be going to a more modest set-up in Miami.</p>

<p>In their first game since Messi's announcement on Wednesday, Miami defeated Alabama non-league side Birmingham Legion 1-0 in the US Open Cup to reach the semi-finals.</p>

<h3>- Glittering history -</h3>

<p>Messi joined Barcelona's academy at 13 years old after leaving his homeland. He became the Catalan club's greatest icon, scoring a record 672 goals in 778 games, winning 35 trophies, including four Champions League triumphs and 10 La Liga titles.</p>

<p>After his unexpected Barcelona departure, Messi linked up in Paris with his former team-mate Neymar and Kylian Mbappe in a star-studded attacking trident, but PSG flattered to deceive during his time at the club.</p>

<p>While they won Ligue 1 twice, they suffered two devastating Champions League last-16 exits, with Messi a target for supporters' anger.</p>

<p>Already being booed by fans, he took an unauthorised trip to Saudi Arabia, where he is a tourism ambassador, and was fined and suspended by PSG.</p>

<p>Messi returned from suspension to play his 75th and final match for PSG last weekend in a defeat by Clermont, during which he was jeered once more and could not add to his tally of 32 goals for the club.</p>

<p>"They were two years which were in general difficult for me, but they are behind me now," said Messi.</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong>:</p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>


Lionel Messi on Wednesday said he will sign for Major League Soccer side Inter Miami, choosing the United States as his next destination over a Barcelona reunion or blockbuster deal to play in Saudi Arabia.

Lionel Messi on Wednesday said he will sign for Major League Soccer side Inter Miami, choosing the United States as his next destination over a Barcelona reunion or blockbuster deal to play in Saudi Arabia. The Argentine forward, 35, has spent the last two seasons at Paris Saint-Germain, playing his final game for the club on Saturday, after moving from Barcelona in 2021, where he spent the majority of his career. 🚨🚨 BREAKING: Lionel Messi to Inter Miami, here we go! The decision has been made and it will be announced by Leo in the next hours #InterMiami 🇺🇸 Messi will play in MLS. No more chances for Barcelona/Al Hilal despite trying to make it happen. 𝐇𝐄𝐑𝐄 𝐖𝐄 𝐆𝐎#Messi #MLS pic.twitter.com/OTYWIlEzNc — Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) June 7, 2023 × MLS and Inter Miami confirmed the news on social media, although the American League noted: "Work remains to finalise a formal agreement". "I've taken the decision that I am going to Miami, I don't have (the deal) 100 per cent sealed or maybe there's something left to do, but we decided to continue our path there," Messi told Spanish newspapers Diario Sport and Mundo Deportivo. "After winning the World Cup and not being able to go to Barca, it's time to go to MLS to live football in a different way and enjoy my day-to-day life more." ALSO READ: Lionel Messi announces Inter Miami move Messi is a seven-time Ballon d'Or winner and is expected to earn the individual accolade once more after leading Argentina to World Cup glory in Qatar in December. The football world was eagerly awaiting Messi's decision after PSG confirmed this week the playmaker, widely considered the best player in the history of football, was departing. The romance of a Barcelona return and the prospect of eye-watering riches in Saudi Arabia fell by the wayside as Messi opted to join MLS, with Miami a city he has holidayed in on previous occasions. "If it had been a question of money, I would have gone to Saudi Arabia or elsewhere," said Messi. "It seemed a lot of money and the truth is that my decision went another way and not for money." Inter Miami, co-owned by former England international David Beckham and founded in 2018, sacked coach Phil Neville last week with the team at the bottom of the Eastern Conference. Some reports say key MLS sponsors including Adidas and Apple TV, who own the league's domestic broadcasting rights, may be contributing to his deal. Messi, who turns 36 later this month, is now set to finish his club career outside the spotlight of top-level European football. - ‘Would have loved to return to Barcelona’ - Messi said he would have loved to return to Barcelona but was afraid that the financial complications which stopped the Catalan club extending his deal in 2021 would interfere again. "I really wanted to come back, I was really looking forward to it," continued Messi. "But, on the other hand, after having lived through what I lived through, after the exit I had... I didn't want to go through the same situation again and have to wait to see what was going to happen. Messi: "I really wanted to return to Barça, I had that dream. But after what happened two years ago, I did not want to be in the same situation again, leaving my future in the hands of someone else...". 🔵🔴 #FCB "I wanted to take my own decision, thinking of me and my family". pic.twitter.com/u0A7xs2XiK — Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) June 7, 2023 × "I didn't want to leave my future in the hands of others. Somehow, I wanted to make my own decision for myself, for my family." Messi said he plans to live in Barcelona again in the future and be involved with his former side in some way. "I don't know at what moment and when, but hopefully I can return one day to contribute something to the club," he said. Messi: "I'd love to be close to Barcelona. I will live in Barcelona again, it's already decided. I hope to help the club one day, because it's the club I love". 🔵🔴 #FCB "I wanna thank the Barça fans for all their support. And yes, I'd love to be again here... definitely". pic.twitter.com/NmESEve1OF — Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) June 7, 2023 × Before that, though, Messi will give the growth of football in the United States another jolt of momentum with his arrival, which comes just three years ahead of the 2026 World Cup being co-hosted in the United States, Canada and Mexico. Having spent the past two seasons of his career at a lavishly funded PSG side, Messi will be going to a more modest set-up in Miami. In their first game since Messi's announcement on Wednesday, Miami defeated Alabama non-league side Birmingham Legion 1-0 in the US Open Cup to reach the semi-finals. - Glittering history - Messi joined Barcelona's academy at 13 years old after leaving his homeland. He became the Catalan club's greatest icon, scoring a record 672 goals in 778 games, winning 35 trophies, including four Champions League triumphs and 10 La Liga titles. After his unexpected Barcelona departure, Messi linked up in Paris with his former team-mate Neymar and Kylian Mbappe in a star-studded attacking trident, but PSG flattered to deceive during his time at the club. While they won Ligue 1 twice, they suffered two devastating Champions League last-16 exits, with Messi a target for supporters' anger. Already being booed by fans, he took an unauthorised trip to Saudi Arabia, where he is a tourism ambassador, and was fined and suspended by PSG. Messi returned from suspension to play his 75th and final match for PSG last weekend in a defeat by Clermont, during which he was jeered once more and could not add to his tally of 32 goals for the club. "They were two years which were in general difficult for me, but they are behind me now," said Messi. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

'If it had been a question of money, I would have gone to Saudi Arabia' - Lionel Messi on joining Inter Miami

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<p>Lionel Messi's father and agent Jorge Messi has indicated that his son may not be returning to Barcelona in the immediate future.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I don't think Leo will play for Barca again," Jorge Messi told reporters before adding, "The conditions are not met."</p>

<p>With questions swirling around whether Messi will sign a contract extension with PSG or not, a faction of supporters want Messi to return to the Catalonia club.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, Jorge added that no conversation had taken place between Messi and Barcelona president Joan Laporta.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We have not spoken with Laporta and there is no offer."</p>

<p>When pressed if he would like to see his son in the iconic Barcelona jersey yet again, Jorge tempered the expectations by saying, "Life takes many turns."&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Barcelona became known thanks to Messi: Matias Messi</strong></h2>

<p>Earlier, Messi's brother Matias Messi in a lengthy tirade blamed Laporta for the former's unceremonious exit from the club.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We will not go back to Barcelona. And if we do, we will do a good cleaning. Among them, get rid of Joan Laporta, ungrateful with everything that Messi gave to Barcelona," said Matias.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“I don’t know about you, but Barcelona became known thanks to Messi. Nobody knew about them before. Whoever’s had the chance to go to Barcelona and see the museum, you can see that the museum is Messi.”</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/messis-brother-issues-an-apology-after-tirade-against-barcelona-and-joan-laporta-560662" target="_blank"><strong>Read more: Messi's brother issues an apology after tirade against Barcelona and Joan Laporta</strong></a></p>

<p>The relationship between Messi and Barcelona appears to have taken a downward turn in recent times. Last month, Barcelona's former head of legal services Roman Gomez Ponti in a leaked WhatsApp chat could be seen referring to Messi as a 'sewer rat' and 'hormonal dwarf'.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Barto, really, you can't be such a good person with this sewer rat. The club has given him everything and he has dedicated himself to marking a dictatorship of signings, transfers, renewals, sponsors just for him, etc."</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sewer-rat-hormonal-dwarf-derogatory-comments-made-by-ex-barca-official-on-lionel-messi-in-leaked-chat-552337"><strong>Read more:&nbsp;'Sewer Rat', 'hormonal dwarf': Derogatory comments made by ex-Barca official on Lionel Messi in leaked chat</strong></a></p>

<p>According to reports, Messi is unwilling to sign a contract extension with PSG and is eyeing a Major League Soccer (MLS) move to Inter Miami.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;</strong></p>

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Lionel Messi's father and agent Jorge Messi has indicated that his son may not be returning to Barcelona in the immediate future. "I don't think Leo will play for Barca again," Jorge Messi told reporters before adding, "The conditions are not met.

Lionel Messi's father and agent Jorge Messi has indicated that his son may not be returning to Barcelona in the immediate future. "I don't think Leo will play for Barca again," Jorge Messi told reporters before adding, "The conditions are not met." With questions swirling around whether Messi will sign a contract extension with PSG or not, a faction of supporters want Messi to return to the Catalonia club. However, Jorge added that no conversation had taken place between Messi and Barcelona president Joan Laporta. "We have not spoken with Laporta and there is no offer." When pressed if he would like to see his son in the iconic Barcelona jersey yet again, Jorge tempered the expectations by saying, "Life takes many turns." Barcelona became known thanks to Messi: Matias Messi Earlier, Messi's brother Matias Messi in a lengthy tirade blamed Laporta for the former's unceremonious exit from the club. "We will not go back to Barcelona. And if we do, we will do a good cleaning. Among them, get rid of Joan Laporta, ungrateful with everything that Messi gave to Barcelona," said Matias. “I don’t know about you, but Barcelona became known thanks to Messi. Nobody knew about them before. Whoever’s had the chance to go to Barcelona and see the museum, you can see that the museum is Messi.” Read more: Messi's brother issues an apology after tirade against Barcelona and Joan Laporta The relationship between Messi and Barcelona appears to have taken a downward turn in recent times. Last month, Barcelona's former head of legal services Roman Gomez Ponti in a leaked WhatsApp chat could be seen referring to Messi as a 'sewer rat' and 'hormonal dwarf'. "Barto, really, you can't be such a good person with this sewer rat. The club has given him everything and he has dedicated himself to marking a dictatorship of signings, transfers, renewals, sponsors just for him, etc." Read more: 'Sewer Rat', 'hormonal dwarf': Derogatory comments made by ex-Barca official on Lionel Messi in leaked chat According to reports, Messi is unwilling to sign a contract extension with PSG and is eyeing a Major League Soccer (MLS) move to Inter Miami. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Lionel Messi's father gives an update on his son's possible Barcelona return

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<p>If reports are to be believed, Argentine superstar Lionel Messi may be on the cusp of agreeing a deal with Major League Soccer (MLS) club Inter Miami.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The American club is co-owned by former England player David Beckham, who is said to be the brains behind the deal. According to The Times report, Messi may become the highest-paid player in MLS history if he puts pen to paper.</p>

<p>Messi is currently playing for the French club Paris St. Germain where his contract is set to expire in 2023. The 35-year-old had signed for PSG after leaving Barcelona in August 2021 as the Catalunya club found itself unable to pay his wages.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The top hierarchy at Inter Miami is confident that Messi will be coming on board after completing the World Cup campaign in Qatar. However, the transfer will not occur during the January transfer window, albeit after the end of the European season.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/we-didnt-expect-to-start-like-this-lionel-messi-on-argentinas-shock-defeat-536521" target="_blank"><strong>Read more: ‘We didn't expect to start like this...’ – Lionel Messi on Argentina’s shock World Cup defeat</strong></a></p>

<p>It is being reported that Messi will be joined by his former Barcelona teammates Cesc Fabregas and Luis Suarez. Messi already has a holiday home in Miami and spends holidays with his family there.</p>

<p>On previous occasions, Messi has mentioned that he would like to play in the US.&nbsp;“I would like to play in the United States one day; it’s always been one of my dreams.”</p>

<p>While Inter Miami is looking to finalise the deal as soon as possible, PSG may also look to entice the Argentine with another lucrative contract.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/qatar-2022-why-are-world-cup-matches-so-long-537452"><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Qatar 2022: Why are world cup matches so long?</strong></a></p>

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<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-lionel-messi-dances-shirtless-after-inspiring-argentina-to-2-0-win-over-mexico-537953" target="_blank"><strong>WATCH: Lionel Messi dances shirtless after inspiring Argentina to 2-0 win over Mexico</strong></a></p>

<p>Despite being on the wrong side of the 30s, Messi has lit up the footballing world, both at the club level and national level this season with his supreme gameplay. On Saturday, it was Messi's breakthrough that allowed Argentina to gain all three points after suffering a shock defeat against Saudi Arabia in the opening game.&nbsp;</p>

<p>While Argentina might have pulled a great escape&nbsp;courtesy of a Messi stunner to stay alive in the ongoing FIFA World Cup, the road ahead is still tough as ever. The Albestiscles still need to win their remaining group games to make it to the next round.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;</strong></p>

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If reports are to be believed, Argentine superstar Lionel Messi may be on the cusp of agreeing a deal with Major League Soccer (MLS) club Inter Miami. The American club is co-owned by former England player David Beckham, who is said to be the brains behind the deal.

If reports are to be believed, Argentine superstar Lionel Messi may be on the cusp of agreeing a deal with Major League Soccer (MLS) club Inter Miami. The American club is co-owned by former England player David Beckham, who is said to be the brains behind the deal. According to The Times report, Messi may become the highest-paid player in MLS history if he puts pen to paper. Messi is currently playing for the French club Paris St. Germain where his contract is set to expire in 2023. The 35-year-old had signed for PSG after leaving Barcelona in August 2021 as the Catalunya club found itself unable to pay his wages. The top hierarchy at Inter Miami is confident that Messi will be coming on board after completing the World Cup campaign in Qatar. However, the transfer will not occur during the January transfer window, albeit after the end of the European season. Read more: ‘We didn't expect to start like this...’ – Lionel Messi on Argentina’s shock World Cup defeat It is being reported that Messi will be joined by his former Barcelona teammates Cesc Fabregas and Luis Suarez. Messi already has a holiday home in Miami and spends holidays with his family there. On previous occasions, Messi has mentioned that he would like to play in the US. “I would like to play in the United States one day; it’s always been one of my dreams.” While Inter Miami is looking to finalise the deal as soon as possible, PSG may also look to entice the Argentine with another lucrative contract. WATCH | Qatar 2022: Why are world cup matches so long? × WATCH: Lionel Messi dances shirtless after inspiring Argentina to 2-0 win over Mexico Despite being on the wrong side of the 30s, Messi has lit up the footballing world, both at the club level and national level this season with his supreme gameplay. On Saturday, it was Messi's breakthrough that allowed Argentina to gain all three points after suffering a shock defeat against Saudi Arabia in the opening game. While Argentina might have pulled a great escape courtesy of a Messi stunner to stay alive in the ongoing FIFA World Cup, the road ahead is still tough as ever. The Albestiscles still need to win their remaining group games to make it to the next round. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Lionel Messi set to join this MLS club co-owned by David Beckham: Reports

<p>Inter Miami has been slapped with a hefty fine of $2 million by the US' football&nbsp;league, Major League Soccer (MLS), following an investigation over salary budget breeches into last year's signing of former France international midfielder Blaise Matuidi.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-massimiliano-allegri-returns-to-juventus-after-pirlo-departs-388078" hreflang="en">Football: Massimiliano Allegri returns to Juventus after Pirlo departs</a></p>

<p>The MLS club, co-owned by former football star David Beckham, bought the 2018 World Cup winner and Andres Reyes should have occupied designated player slots, the MLS said in announcing their verdict on Friday.</p>

<p>The Miami-based club was also fined due to undisclosed agreements that resulted in the underreporting of salaries to Leandro Gonzalez Pirez, Nicolas Figal and Julian Carranza.</p>

<p>Team's managing owner Jorge Mas was fined US$250,000. The chief operating officer of Inter Miami, Paul McDonough, who was also the Sports Director at the time, has been suspended till the end of the season.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The MLS pointed out that the players' contracts remain in force and would not be affected.</p>

<p>"The integrity of our rules is sacrosanct, and it is a fundamental principle of our league that our clubs are responsible for adhering to all league regulations," said MLS commissioner Don Garber.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Our rules will not be compromised. These sanctions reflect the severity of Inter Miami's violations, should encourage complete cooperation by all parties in future investigations, and will serve as a deterrent for clubs from violating roster rules."</p>

<p>While Mas was among those cleared of wrongdoing, he was fined after the MLS decreed he was responsible for making sure the club had sufficient controls in place to comply with the league's rules.</p>

<p>"We have worked closely with MLS to address these issues and have made significant changes in our management structure," said Mas in a statement.</p>

<p>"Inter Miami is an ambitious club with big aspirations. We believe our fanbase, market and ownership group propel us to be one of North America’s most-followed futbol teams in the world.</p>

<p>"We are committed to supporting our team and building a roster we are proud of."</p>

<p>(Inputs from Reuters)</p>


Inter Miami has been slapped with a hefty fine of $2 million by the US' football league, Major League Soccer (MLS), following an investigation over salary budget breeches into last year's signing of former France international midfielder Blaise Matuidi.

Inter Miami has been slapped with a hefty fine of $2 million by the US' football league, Major League Soccer (MLS), following an investigation over salary budget breeches into last year's signing of former France international midfielder Blaise Matuidi. ALSO READ: Football: Massimiliano Allegri returns to Juventus after Pirlo departs The MLS club, co-owned by former football star David Beckham, bought the 2018 World Cup winner and Andres Reyes should have occupied designated player slots, the MLS said in announcing their verdict on Friday. The Miami-based club was also fined due to undisclosed agreements that resulted in the underreporting of salaries to Leandro Gonzalez Pirez, Nicolas Figal and Julian Carranza. Team's managing owner Jorge Mas was fined US$250,000. The chief operating officer of Inter Miami, Paul McDonough, who was also the Sports Director at the time, has been suspended till the end of the season. The MLS pointed out that the players' contracts remain in force and would not be affected. "The integrity of our rules is sacrosanct, and it is a fundamental principle of our league that our clubs are responsible for adhering to all league regulations," said MLS commissioner Don Garber. "Our rules will not be compromised. These sanctions reflect the severity of Inter Miami's violations, should encourage complete cooperation by all parties in future investigations, and will serve as a deterrent for clubs from violating roster rules." While Mas was among those cleared of wrongdoing, he was fined after the MLS decreed he was responsible for making sure the club had sufficient controls in place to comply with the league's rules. "We have worked closely with MLS to address these issues and have made significant changes in our management structure," said Mas in a statement. "Inter Miami is an ambitious club with big aspirations. We believe our fanbase, market and ownership group propel us to be one of North America’s most-followed futbol teams in the world. "We are committed to supporting our team and building a roster we are proud of." (Inputs from Reuters)

Football: MLS slaps David Beckham's Inter Miami with hefty fine

<p>David Beckham says Inter Miami are ready to make big-name signings as they prepare for their second season in Major League Soccer under new coach Phil Neville.</p>

<p>Speaking Saturday at an event to launch Miami's new jersey, Inter co-owner Beckham said the club saw home-grown talent as the cornerstone of the franchise's long-term success.</p>

<p>However he acknowledged that Inter remained in the hunt for big-name players, citing the likes of Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi, who have both previously indicated interest in playing in MLS.</p>

<p>"I have said from day one that our academy system is a massive part of this club and if we can bring players through here that have lived and breathed Inter Miami then that is the goal," Beckham told AFP.</p>

<p>"But we also know that being in Miami, our fans want to see the big stars.</p>

<p>"We already have players like Gonzalo Higuain and Blaise Matuidi who add to the glitz and glamour but also going forward we want to have the opportunity to bring some great names in."</p>

<p>Asked about Messi and Ronaldo, Beckham refused to rule out a move for either player.</p>

<p>"The player has to be right for the team, still have ambition and want to win," Beckham said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"So whatever player we talk to, we have to make sure that is a priority.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Of course, we always want to bring in great players. Miami is a great pull for anyone and those kinds of players (Messi and Ronaldo) are the kind we aspire to bring here."</p>

<p>Beckham said Miami's recruitment policy took inspiration from his former Manchester United boss Alex Ferguson.</p>

<p>"Sir Alex Ferguson was the master at choosing the right player, he didn't always bring the best player in the world, he brought the right player for the club and that is one of the things that I have taken into this place," he said.</p>

<p>Miami boss Neville has already added former Stoke City defender Ryan Shawcross to his squad as well as Brazilian midfielder Gregore while talks with West Bromwich Albion full-back Kieran Gibbs continue.</p>


David Beckham says Inter Miami are ready to make big-name signings as they prepare for their second season in Major League Soccer under new coach Phil Neville. Speaking Saturday at an event to launch Miami's new jersey, Inter co-owner Beckham said the club saw home-grown talent as the cornerstone of the franchise's long-term success.

David Beckham says Inter Miami are ready to make big-name signings as they prepare for their second season in Major League Soccer under new coach Phil Neville. Speaking Saturday at an event to launch Miami's new jersey, Inter co-owner Beckham said the club saw home-grown talent as the cornerstone of the franchise's long-term success. However he acknowledged that Inter remained in the hunt for big-name players, citing the likes of Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi, who have both previously indicated interest in playing in MLS. "I have said from day one that our academy system is a massive part of this club and if we can bring players through here that have lived and breathed Inter Miami then that is the goal," Beckham told AFP. "But we also know that being in Miami, our fans want to see the big stars. "We already have players like Gonzalo Higuain and Blaise Matuidi who add to the glitz and glamour but also going forward we want to have the opportunity to bring some great names in." Asked about Messi and Ronaldo, Beckham refused to rule out a move for either player. "The player has to be right for the team, still have ambition and want to win," Beckham said. "So whatever player we talk to, we have to make sure that is a priority. "Of course, we always want to bring in great players. Miami is a great pull for anyone and those kinds of players (Messi and Ronaldo) are the kind we aspire to bring here." Beckham said Miami's recruitment policy took inspiration from his former Manchester United boss Alex Ferguson. "Sir Alex Ferguson was the master at choosing the right player, he didn't always bring the best player in the world, he brought the right player for the club and that is one of the things that I have taken into this place," he said. Miami boss Neville has already added former Stoke City defender Ryan Shawcross to his squad as well as Brazilian midfielder Gregore while talks with West Bromwich Albion full-back Kieran Gibbs continue.

Miami ready for big-name signings - Beckham

<p><meta name="uuid" content="uuidDuGJZNtefREL" /><meta charset="utf-8" /></p>

<p>Gonzalo Higuain and his brother Federico will be in Inter Miami after the MLS club signed a deal with DC United for the midfielder on Saturday.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/edinson-cavani-talks-about-pressure-of-wearing-jersey-no7-for-manchester-united-334453" hreflang="en">Edinson Cavani talks about pressure of wearing jersey No.7 for Manchester United</a></p>

<p>According to the deal, Miami sent $50,000 in general player allocation money in exchange for Gonzalo's older brother, a 35-year-old playmaker who joined United in March after eight seasons with the Columbus Crew.</p>

<p>"Federico has been a great player in this league," Inter Miami sporting director Paul McDonough said. "We were thrilled to add more attacking depth, experience and playmaking ability to our roster when this opportunity presented itself."</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/de-bruyne-tips-england-to-shine-at-euros-world-cup-334462" hreflang="en">De Bruyne tips England to shine at Euros, World Cup</a></p>

<p>Federico scored two goals in 10 appearances, all as a reserve, for United. He has 60 goals in 2017 MLS matches over nine seasons.</p>

<p>"We want to thank Pipa for his time and commitment," DC United general manager Dave Kasper said.</p>

<p>"Family is important and Federico personally requested to be reunited with his brother Gonzalo in Miami. We wish him the best of luck in the next chapter of his career."</p>

<p>Higuain brothers become the 18th pair (of brothers) to serve as MLS teammates.</p>

<p>32-year-old Gonzalo played for clubs like Real Madrid, Napoli and Juventus. He also was loaned to Milan and Chelsea before bidding goodbye to Juve last month.&nbsp;</p>

<p>On Wednesday, Gonzalo scored his first goal with Inter Miami in a 2-1 victory over the New York Red Bulls.</p>

<p><em>(Inputs from AFP)</em></p>


Gonzalo Higuain and his brother Federico will be in Inter Miami after the MLS club signed a deal with DC United for the midfielder on Saturday. Also read: Edinson Cavani talks about pressure of wearing jersey No.

Gonzalo Higuain and his brother Federico will be in Inter Miami after the MLS club signed a deal with DC United for the midfielder on Saturday. Also read: Edinson Cavani talks about pressure of wearing jersey No.7 for Manchester United According to the deal, Miami sent $50,000 in general player allocation money in exchange for Gonzalo's older brother, a 35-year-old playmaker who joined United in March after eight seasons with the Columbus Crew. "Federico has been a great player in this league," Inter Miami sporting director Paul McDonough said. "We were thrilled to add more attacking depth, experience and playmaking ability to our roster when this opportunity presented itself." Also read: De Bruyne tips England to shine at Euros, World Cup Federico scored two goals in 10 appearances, all as a reserve, for United. He has 60 goals in 2017 MLS matches over nine seasons. "We want to thank Pipa for his time and commitment," DC United general manager Dave Kasper said. "Family is important and Federico personally requested to be reunited with his brother Gonzalo in Miami. We wish him the best of luck in the next chapter of his career." Higuain brothers become the 18th pair (of brothers) to serve as MLS teammates. 32-year-old Gonzalo played for clubs like Real Madrid, Napoli and Juventus. He also was loaned to Milan and Chelsea before bidding goodbye to Juve last month. On Wednesday, Gonzalo scored his first goal with Inter Miami in a 2-1 victory over the New York Red Bulls. (Inputs from AFP)

Major Soccer League: Higuain brothers to play for Inter Miami FC

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