Inter Miami have announced the introduction of the Lionel Messi stand at the club’s Nu Stadium.
The MLS side have taken the unusual route of honouring a current player by re-naming a stand in Messi’s honour.
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The Argentine signed for Inter Miami fromLigue 1 giants Paris Saint-Germain in July 2023 and has since scored 82 goals in 94 games for The Herons.
Last season, he became the first player in MLS history to win back-to-back MVP Awards. In addition to winning the Leagues Cup, Supporters’ Shield and MLS Cup since moving to Miami, Messi’s arrival helped elevate the Inter Miami brand and the profile of MLS.
The US side have now announced the decision to pay permanent tribute to the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner at their home stadium.
“Inter Miami CF is excited to announce Leo Messi stand, with our number 10 and captain set to become part of a rare and unique case in global sports: an athlete regularly playing at his home stadium with a stand named in his honor,” a club statement said.
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“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 onto the pitch. Recognizing someone is not always about closing a chapter. Sometimes it is about realizing you are witnessing something unique.
“We present to you: the Leo Messi Stand at Nu Stadium!
Messi has established himself as Inter Miami’s all-time leader both in goals and assists, tallying 135 goals and assists in his 94 appearances across all competitions to date.
