It’s an occasion David Beckham was never going to miss. One he has had a significant role in creating. The sight of Lionel Messi turning on the bright lights of Miami.
Only this time on behalf of Argentina in a World Cup, instead of the Inter Miami club he represents and Beckham co-owns. When Inter Miami decided to take the financial plunge and sign Messi from Paris Saint-Germain in 2023, it promised to be a game-changer.
And it has been. Inter’s merchandising sales have gone through the roof, and continue to do so more than ever, while attendances have risen almost 40 per cent. Because of Messi.
Before his arrival, Inter had never won a trophy. Now they have two, including the MLS titles. From one of the newest franchises in the league, to champions. Because of Messi.
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Inter have been able to sign other superstar names, including Sergio Busquets and Jordi Alba. Because of Messi.
But the power of the footballing icon stretches well past what he does on the field at the Nu Stadium. His influence can be found around every corner of this part of Florida.
The number of youngsters to have ditched baseball and basketball for ‘soccer’, at academies across Miami, has increased tenfold. Murals of the most famous face in football can be found painted on the walls in the Wynwood district and Latino quarter.
Step aside, LeBron James. Beckham himself was lifted up in a giant crane to honour a giant one created by celebrated artist Maximiliano Bagnasco.
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4View 4 ImagesThe love for Lionel Messi in Miami is real
4View 4 ImagesMurals can be seen across the city
Hundreds of fans flock to Messi’s secluded Miami mansion on the Bay Colony estate every day, in the hope of seeing him. And while Beckham has one of the golden tickets for Argentina’s last-32 showdown with Cape Verde, thousands who don’t will still flock to the Miami Stadium, in the hope of catching a glimpse of their idol.
Extra police will be drafted in to deal with the commotion. Because of Messi.
At the Buenos Aires Bakery, an Argentinean eatery close to South Beach, owners have started charging an entry fee of £10, with a minimum spend of £15, to exploit the increase in demand for tables. Because of Messi.
Messi even owns his own restaurant. The ‘Amalfi Llama’ on Biscayne Boulevard in north Miami, which has a dish named after him, the ‘Milamessi’. Steak features heavily on the menu of a place which is booked up months in advance. Because of Messi – obviously.
View 4 ImagesLionel Messi and David Beckham have lifted multiple trophies together(Image: CHANDAN KHANNA/AFP via Getty Images)
While those of Argentinean descent now living in Miami, believe Messi’s arrival in these parts has changed the culture. Resident Donatella Diaz said: “He makes us all feel that little closer to home. He makes people feel batter about their lives.
“He might be an icon, but he is also an example of how hard work can change your time on this earth.”
Like the footballing world in general, Miami has changed. Because of Messi.
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