Inter Miami: When will Lionel Messi play his first match in his new colours?

Argentine footballer Lionel Messi is set to make his debut for Inter Miami on July 21 against Mexican side Cruz Azul in the Leagues Cup, a new competition that pits MLS and Liga MX teams against each other. The news of Messi’s signing has caused tickets for this match to sell out quickly, with resale prices ranging from $1,319 to $6,000.

Jorge Mas, the American club’s maximum shareholder confirmed that they are aiming for Messi to make his debut on July 21. He believes that Messi will be the biggest ambassador and recruiter in the history of Major League Soccer and attract talent of all ages and levels.

Mas also acknowledged that he thinks there will always be a before and after Messi when it comes to sport in the United States: “I have a very, very strong belief that we can create in North America and the United States, if not the best league, one of the two best leagues in the world.”

Messi’s arrival at Inter Miami could potentially boost MLS’ popularity even further as fans eagerly await his first game. His presence alone may attract more top-level players to join him in playing for an American team.

It remains unclear what kind of impact Messi will have on Inter Miami’s performance overall but many believe he will bring a level of skill and experience unmatched by any other player currently competing in MLS or Liga MX.

Despite being yet to finalise details of his contract with Inter Miami officially, anticipation surrounding Messi’s arrival continues to grow among fans worldwide. With just over a month until his debut game against Cruz Azul, excitement builds around how well he’ll perform during his time with Inter Miami while also helping raise awareness about soccer across North America.