Inter Miami Seeks Nostalgic and International Touch with Friendly Against Newell’s Old Boys

FORT LAUDERDALE, FLORIDA - NOVEMBER 10: Lionel Messi #10 of Inter Miami CF looks on against New York City FC during the first half at DRV PNK Stadium on November 10, 2023 in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. (Photo by Rich Storry/Getty Images)
FORT LAUDERDALE, FLORIDA - NOVEMBER 10: Lionel Messi #10 of Inter Miami CF looks on against New York City FC during the first half at DRV PNK Stadium on November 10, 2023 in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. (Photo by Rich Storry/Getty Images)

Inter Miami, a Major League Soccer (MLS) team, is taking bold and exciting steps for the 2024 season. In an end-of-year talk, Sporting Director Chris Henderson revealed ambitious plans, highlighting the potential staging of a friendly against Newell’s Old Boys, the childhood club of none other than Lionel Messi.

The proposal is not just a preseason game but an emotional foray for Messi and a strategic move to solidify Inter Miami’s international presence. By aiming to face one of Argentina’s most historic clubs, the North American team shows ambition beyond the borders of the MLS.

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Inter Miami had already stood out for its global approach, scheduling an Asia tour in early November. Although unexpectedly canceled, the team now seeks to further expand its reach by pursuing a clash with one of the most emblematic clubs in Argentine soccer.

FORT LAUDERDALE, FLORIDA – NOVEMBER 10: Lionel Messi #10 of Inter Miami CF dribbles the ball against the New York City FC during the second half at DRV PNK Stadium on November 10, 2023 in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. (Photo by Rich Storry/Getty Images)
FORT LAUDERDALE, FLORIDA – NOVEMBER 10: Lionel Messi #10 of Inter Miami CF dribbles the ball against the New York City FC during the second half at DRV PNK Stadium on November 10, 2023 in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. (Photo by Rich Storry/Getty Images)

The most captivating element of this initiative is the potential reunion of Messi with his soccer roots. The Argentine star played for Newell’s Old Boys for five years before becoming a legend at Barcelona. The idea of Messi facing his childhood club adds a unique emotional dimension to this friendly, turning it into more than just a preparation match.

Furthermore, Inter Miami seems determined to solidify its international image, surpassing other MLS teams in this regard. The pursuit of games in different parts of the world and the attempt to establish deep connections with figures as iconic as Messi demonstrate a strategic vision for brand building.

While Messi is currently on international duty with Argentina, Inter Miami is in the offseason, meticulously planning the upcoming campaign. This period of inactivity during the winter months in the USA is being utilized not only for training but also for crafting a narrative that transcends the lines of the field.

Inter Miami is sketching out a bold and captivating plan for 2024, where soccer blends with nostalgia and international ambition. The potential match against Newell’s Old Boys is not just a strategic move but an invitation for fans to witness a special chapter in Lionel Messi’s history, as Inter Miami seeks to solidify its place not only in the MLS but on the global soccer stage.