Miami has established itself as a hub for sports enthusiasts with its multitude of sports events and teams. From soccer to tennis, Miami proudly showcases its presence on the global stage. The city has celebrated numerous thrilling moments that have instilled pride in its teams, with individuals such as LeBron James taking the notch higher to sports eminence.?

But recently, the soccer world was left in its wake as Inter Miami CF has officially signed Lionel Messi, the Argentine superstar, in a multi-million contract. Jorge Mas, Inter Miami’s managing owner, revealed that securing Messi took three years of negotiations. Lionel can earn an astonishing annual salary ranging from ?50 to $60 million. But are the laurels enough to be compared to once-Miami Heat superstar James?

Lionel Messi’s move compared to LeBron James

The Messi move to Miami is making for global sports news. This is likely due to Messi’s rejection of other lucrative offers to join Saudi Arabia, but the arrival of one of soccer’s greatest icons has put the USA in the spotlight.

Another Miami move of a similar magnitude happened after LeBron James revealed his decision before the 2011 NBA season. A sports entertainment page recently asked people of Miami about Messi’s recent acquisition and asked it to compare with the arrival of LeBron James.?

From people’s reactions, it might seem that the recent Inter-Miami sign isn’t curating big headlines. Miami has traditionally been a basketball space. Once the fans get into it, it has one of the most loyal and loudest fans in the sport. Could Messi find his feet in a land where the b-ball does the talking?

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Is Miami ready to welcome Lionel Messi?

Messi is undoubtedly one of the greatest players of all time. He has achieved almost every major honor in his legendary career. But after a disappointing time in the capital of France, the 36-year-old has travelled across the Atlantic in a bid to capture the American market.

His soccer exploits mean Messi has a legion of followers following his every step.? Less than 24 hours after the announcement of his transfer, the followers on Inter Miami’s social media accounts surged to an astonishing 5.7 million followers. The number is more than the NFL’s Super Bowl champions Kansas City and 75% of NBA teams.

Also, according to sources, the club can change its business model upon Messi’s signing. The average ticket price for Inter Miami home matches surged from $31 to $152; for away games, it rose from $94 to $207.

However, are the fans ready to witness the Argentinian great in action in the heart of Miami? Will he ever win over the ‘Magic City’? Let us know in the comments below.

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