Confirmed: Messi Is Set To Play Against His Old Club Before Joining Barcelona
Lionel Messi, who previously played for the Argentine club before moving to Barcelona, is set to face his childhood club in a friendly on Feb. 15 as Inter Miami takes on them.
Messi’s Nostalgic Return: A Friendly Reunion with Newell’s Old Boys
Lionel Messi, the legendary footballer who has etched his legacy with FC Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain, is set to revisit his roots in an emotional encounter. Confirmed reports indicate that Messi will play against his childhood club, Newell’s Old Boys, with Inter Miami CF.
A Glimpse into Messi’s Early Days
While Messi is synonymous with Barcelona, it’s essential to trace back to his formative years. In the 2004–05 season, Messi transitioned to Barcelona B before swiftly ascending to the senior team. His competitive debut for Barcelona’s senior squad on October 16, 2004, marked the inception of a footballing journey that has rewritten record books.
The Reunion: Inter Miami vs. Newell’s Old Boys
Inter Miami CF, the MLS franchise where Messi currently plies his trade, will host Newell’s Old Boys in a preseason friendly on February 15 at the DRV PNK Stadium in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. This match holds significant sentimental value as it marks Messi’s return to the club where he honed his skills during his formative years in Rosario.
A Special Reunion for Martino
Inter Miami’s head coach, Gerardo Martino, also shares a profound connection with Newell’s Old Boys. Martino, who debuted as a player for Newell’s in 1980, holds the record for the most appearances for the club. His illustrious career with Newell’s, both as a player and a coach, adds an extra layer of significance to this friendly encounter.
“I am delighted to welcome my beloved Newell’s to our home here in Miami. It will be a special match due to everything Newell’s Old Boys means to me,” expressed Martino, encapsulating the sentiment surrounding this reunion.
Exciting Preseason Awaits Inter Miami
The friendly match against Newell’s is a pivotal addition to Inter Miami’s preseason preparations. With six friendlies lined up before the commencement of the next MLS season, including international fixtures against El Salvador and clubs in Saudi Arabia and Hong Kong, Inter Miami aims to hit the ground running in 2024.
Chris Henderson, Inter Miami’s Chief Soccer Officer and Sporting Director, echoed the anticipation surrounding the upcoming matches, stating, “This match against Newell’s is a great addition to a set of matches that will put us in the best position possible to compete in 2024. We’re excited for what is ahead.“
As Messi prepares to face Newell’s Old Boys, the footballing world eagerly anticipates a nostalgic reunion. This friendly encounter serves as a poignant reminder of Messi’s humble beginnings and his remarkable journey to football stardom, encapsulating the essence of passion, dedication, and unparalleled skill that define his illustrious career.
