Inter Miami’s Jorge Mas reveals when Messi will start, what’s happening with stadium

After going “dark and silent for a significant amount of time”, Inter Miami managing owner Jorge Mas broke his silence on the impending Lionel Messi deal, its impact on the team and Major League Soccer, and the status of Miami Freedom Park.

He confirmed during a wide-ranging conversation with a small group of reporters that Messi and the club have agreed to terms and are finalizing paperwork and visas. The target date for his first game in a Miami uniform is July 21 at DRV PNK Stadium for the Leagues Cup opener against Mexican team Cruz Azul.

A source with knowledge of the negotiations said it is a two-and-a-half-year deal worth $50 million to $60 million per year with an option for 2026. It will include salary, bonuses and equity in the club upon the end of his playing days. Mas stressed that there is no direct subsidy from the league and “absolutely no changes in the roster rules. There are no categories or anything that is being changed to incorporate Lionel Messi on to inter Miami’s roster.”

Read more at MiamiHerald.com.