Lionel Messi gave a surprise to the soccer world after announcing his move to the MLS. The Argentinian has joined Inter Miami after ending a two-season spell at PSG. Everyone was eager to get an update regarding his future, as the playmaker finally put an end to all the speculation.
The 35-year-old rejected a billion-dollar move to Saudi Arabia and a much-awaited return to FC Barcelona. While he gave a response to his decision, the legendary forward recently shared his first words following his move on his social media.
Lionel Messi’s words after Inter Miami move
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After revealing his next destination, Messi has finally spoken his first words as he restarted his social media activity. The veteran shared a post on his Instagram where he was seen promoting a friendly tournament. It was actually a marketing campaign from the famous sports drink brand, Gatorade.
View this post on Instagram
In the clip, he said, “Congratulations to all the winners of the local tournaments. A great challenge awaits you in the Global Final. Give it your all on the field!” The former PSG man congratulated the finalist of Gatorade’s 5v5 2023 tournament. The tournament will be held in Istanbul. In fact, the winner of the event will get a chance to watch the UEFA Champions League.
Messi sponsors Gatorade and has often taken part in promotional campaigns for the brand. Notably, the World Cup winner signed a lifetime contract with Pepsico’s sports-themed beverage in February 2017 as he pockets £18 million each year. Speaking of money, Messi’s contract at his new club will see him get paid well, as it has led him to surpass Jimmy Butler and Tyreek Hill in wages.
Lionel Messi surpasses Jimmy Butler and Tyreek Hill in wages
Messi’s arrival in America is already making headlines as it has set another record. La Pulga will be earning £43 million, or $54 million per year, at his new club. His wage cap has set a new record, as his salary has surpassed the payouts of Jimmy Butler and Tyreek Hill. In a recent comparison of the highest-paid athletes per season in Miami, Messi topped the charts.
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⚽️ 𝐋𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐞𝐥 𝐌𝐞𝐬𝐬𝐢 – £43m
🏀 Jimmy Butler – £30m
🏈 Tyreek Hill – £24m
⚾️ Jorge Soler – £12mLionel Messi is now reportedly the highest-paid athlete per season in Miami. 🇺🇸 pic.twitter.com/csbcgovV7G
— Football Daily (@footballdaily) June 9, 2023
The second place was taken by NBA and Heats star Butler with £30 million ($37 million). On the other hand, third place was taken by NFL and Dolphins star Tyreek Hill, with £24 million ($30 million). Meanwhile, MLB and Miami Marlins star Jorge Soler takes fourth place with £12 million ($15 million). Indeed, a classic Messi effect.
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WATCH THIS STORY: 2 Years After Wanting to ‘Kill’ Him, Lionel Messi Gifts One of His Iconic Awards to His World Cup Winning Teammate in a Wholesome Gesture
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