Inter Miami, the Major League Soccer club that welcomed Lionel Messi last summer, is embarking on an extraordinary preseason tour. The team, accompanied by the soccer icon himself, will play two matches in Saudi Arabia this week. This trip is just a small part of Inter Miami's extensive preseason schedule, which includes matches in El Salvador, Hong Kong, Japan, and the United States.
The arrival of Messi has catapulted Inter Miami into the global spotlight. The club's preseason matches have now become grand spectacles, drawing large crowds and capturing global attention. People from all corners of the world are eager to witness the talent and influence of one of the greatest footballers in history.
DeAndre Yedlin, Inter Miami's defender and former captain, expressed his awe at the impact Messi has had on the team and the sport. Yedlin acknowledged that while there is a collective focus on Messi, it is a testament to his remarkable influence and talent. The player's presence has undoubtedly raised the profile of the team, generating excitement and intrigue for fans and media alike.
Inter Miami's decision to travel to Saudi Arabia stems directly from Messi's involvement. As the ambassador for Saudi tourism, Messi's presence helps promote the country and create a unique opportunity for fans to witness his brilliance up close. The financial details of the club's agreement with Saudi Arabia have not been disclosed, but it is reasonable to assume that the arrangement provides significant financial benefits, which can offset some of Messi's hefty salary.
It is worth noting that Saudi Arabia has been actively engaged in attracting high-profile sporting events and investing in sports ventures. Critics have coined the term 'sportswashing' to describe this strategy, accusing the kingdom of using sports as a means to improve its global image. However, Messi's association with the Saudis has not affected his popularity. His immense influence remains intact.
For Inter Miami, this preseason tour represents a significant shift from their previous year. Last season, the team played behind closed doors in small-scale matches, attracting limited attention. Now, they face Cristiano Ronaldo and other top-level teams, while the world watches with anticipation, even though these results will not count towards their official record.
The journey has also transformed the club's social media following. From having less than a million followers on Instagram, Inter Miami's account has now amassed sixteen million, largely due to Messi's immense popularity. This significant increase in followers highlights the global reach and impact of both Messi and the club.
Inter Miami recognizes the value of this extraordinary preseason schedule. The chance to face top-notch competition and experience different playing styles will undoubtedly contribute to the team's growth and development. Each match offers a unique challenge and an opportunity for the team to evolve.
In the end, Inter Miami's preseason tour, with Messi as the driving force, showcases the remarkable power and appeal of soccer. It underscores the global excitement surrounding the sport and how it can transcend national borders, cultures, and languages. Inter Miami's journey represents a celebration of football's ability to unite and captivate people from all walks of life.
