David Beckham's blockbuster move to LA Galaxy in 2007 was the very first statement MLS transfer. It's fitting that the franchise he owns has one-upped that.
Lionel Messi is heading to Inter Miami. They are rooted to the foot of the league's Eastern Conference, but 10 days ago they were managed by Phil Neville, so things are at least starting to look up.
The game's greatest ever player will be taking his talents to South Beach (or 30 miles north to Fort Lauderdale for the meantime, anyway).
Here's everything you need to know as to when he will arrive in Miami and be unveiled.
When will Lionel Messi join Inter Miami?
As of June 10 2023, Messi has not yet signed on the dotted line with Inter Miami - both he and MLS have admitted that the finalising of certain paperwork needs to be sorted first.
Inter Miami teased that the Argentine would be joining back on June 7, but have not yet announced or confirmed his signing.
Messi remains under contract with Paris Saint-Germain until June 30. Once that date passes, he is free to be employed by another club.
It is nearly certain that PSG will allow Messi to join up with Inter Miami prior to the official expiration of his contract and an announcement could come before the end of the month.
However, MLS' next transfer window does not open until July 5 - the earliest date at which Inter Miami can register Messi.
His first game could come on July 9 against D.C. United, who are managed by Wayne Rooney. However, reports from the US suggest he is more likely to make his debut in mid-to-late July or during the MLS All-Star game against Arsenal on July 19.
When will Lionel Messi be unveiled at Inter Miami?
Because Messi has not yet signed for Inter Miami, a date has not yet been set for his official unveiling.
The 35-year-old might not arrive in Florida until the very end of June or early July, even if his contract is signed before then. Argentina travel to Asia for friendlies against Australia (June 15) and Indonesia (June 19), with Messi named in Lionel Scaloni's 27-player squad.
Once those fixtures have taken place, Messi is likely to rest up on holiday for a few days.
It is possible Messi could be unveiled with a commercial event in downtown Miami and then hold an introductory press conference on two separate days - future teammate Nick Marsman claimed in recent days that the club's temporary DRV PNK Stadium is not fit to support such a superstar from even a security standpoint.
For reference, Messi's unveiling at PSG took place one day after his transfer was confirmed. He held a press conference before sitting down with various media outlets from around the world at the club's Parc des Princes stadium.
How to watch Lionel Messi's unveiling at Inter Miami
Messi's unveiling at Inter Miami could be one of the most-watched events of the year and there likely won't be a shortage of places to watch it.
Inter Miami and MLS are expected to showcase any unveiling on their social media and YouTube accounts.
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This article was originally published on 90min as When will Lionel Messi be unveiled at Inter Miami? Date and how to watch.
