Lionel Messi to make his MLS debut with Inter Miami CF on July 21, per report

The managing owner of Inter Miami CF says Argentine star Lionel Messi is likely to make his debut with the MLS club on July 21.

Inter Miami CF is scheduled to play a Leagues Cup match against Cruz Azul at DRV PNK Stadium in Fort Lauderdale, Florida.

Messi announced he was planning to suit up for Miami after leaving Paris Saint-Germain, though no formal contract has been signed

“As you may recall, Argentina trained in Miami before they flew over to Doha (for 2022 World Cup), where we had an opportunity to see some of the Messi mania at our doors on an everyday basis during practice. So, we’re very prepared. We’ve been getting ready for this,” Inter Miami owner Jorge Mas said to the Miami Herald.

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The 35-year-old Messi has won a record seven Ballon d’Or awards and is one of the world’s highest-paid athletes.

“I think there will always be a ‘before and after Messi’ when we talk about the sport in the United States,” Mas said. “I cannot overemphasize the magnitude of this announcement. Having the world’s greatest player here is something that is significant for our league, and for the football ecosystem in the United States … Lionel Messi is coming to this country to win cups and make a difference.”

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Lionel Messi to make his MLS debut with Inter Miami CF on July 21