Argentina’s great Lionel Messi will have a stand named after him at his current club, Inter Miami’s new stadium.
The 38-year-old, widely regarded as one of the greatest players ever, signed for the MLS club in 2023 after a trophy-laden career in Europe with Barcelona and Paris St-Germain.
He has gone on to become the record goalscorer with 82, and the record assist provider with 53 for the Florida club, who have taken the unusual step of honouring an active player in this fashion at their 26,700-capacity Nu Stadium.
Inter Miami said, “Traditionally, tributes look to the past. They are built from nostalgia. From memory. This one is different. This one is born from the present.
“From what is happening right now. From what you feel every time Leo steps on to the pitch.
“Recognising someone is not always about closing a chapter. Sometimes it is about realising you are witnessing something unique.”
Inter Miami are set to play their first match at the new stadium against Austin FC on Saturday, 4 April.
It is the second time in recent history the Argentine, who captained his country to World Cup glory in 2022, has had a stand named after him, with Newell’s Old Boys – where he played as a child – doing the same in June 2025.
Last season, Messi, who is an eight-time Ballon d’Or winner, became the first player in MLS history to win back-to-back Most Valuable Player awards.
Messi’s arrival at the club co-owned by former England captain David Beckham has raised the league’s profile and Inter Miami’s status, and delivered success in the form of the Leagues Cup, Supporters’ Shield and MLS Cup.
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Source: www.myjoyonline.com