Messi Joins Inter Miami

Lionel Messi debut! The GOAT subs into first Inter Miami match

Jonathan Sigal

The Lionel Messi era, officially, is underway.

MIA-Messi-Lionel-HEA-1080x1080
Lionel Messi
Forward · Inter Miami CF

The Argentine superstar made his Inter Miami CF debut in the 54th minute of Friday night's Leagues Cup group-stage opener vs. Liga MX side Cruz Azul.

The seven-time Ballon d'Or winner, sporting his new all-pink Herons kit, entered for homegrown midfielder Benjamin Cremaschi and was handed the captain's armband.

Head coach Gerard "Tata" Martino also brought on midfielder Sergio Busquets – making it two of three FC Barcelona legends to debut in the club's new epoch. Left back Jordi Alba signed yesterday, but hasn't yet formally joined his new team.

But the spotlight firmly was on the GOAT at DRV PNK Stadium, with the sold-out crowd rising to its feet in anticipation of a moment that's been weeks in the making.

Jonathan Sigal -
@JonathanSigal
Messi Joins Inter Miami Inter Miami CF Lionel Messi Matchday

Related Stories

Become a Messi Insider: Sign up to receive insider news, early access to Messi promotions and more.

By checking this box, I hereby consent to receive additional information from Major League Soccer, its Clubs, Soccer United Marketing and each of their respective affiliates and marketing partners and I agree to the MLSSoccer.com Privacy Policy and Terms & Conditions.
More News
More News
Video
Video

The Messi Insider: Get the best Messi coverage straight to your inbox.

By checking this box, I hereby consent to receive additional information from Major League Soccer, its Clubs, Soccer United Marketing and each of their respective affiliates and marketing partners and I agree to the MLSSoccer.com Privacy Policy and Terms & Conditions.