Lionel Messi, the Argentine football superstar, has made his highly anticipated arrival in South Florida as the new striker for Inter Miami CF.

The 34-year-old player, accompanied by his wife and children, was spotted disembarking from a plane at Fort Lauderdale Executive Airport, and the moment was captured by CBS News Miami cameras. In a matter of minutes, Messi and his family were whisked away in a sleek black van, which had been waiting nearby.

The excitement surrounding Messi’s arrival is palpable, with Inter Miami announcing a major unveiling event scheduled for July 16th. During this grand event at DRV PNK Stadium, it is expected that Messi will be presented to the eagerly awaiting fans. The team officials have promised an unforgettable experience for supporters, with a lineup of thrilling entertainment, inspiring speeches, and much more.

Inter Miami is now aiming for Messi’s debut match to take place on July 21st. As anticipation grows, tickets for the Leagues Cup match against Cruz Azul are already appearing on secondary markets at exorbitant prices, some exceeding $10,000 each. Clearly, fans are willing to pay a premium to witness the maestro’s first game with the club.

The announcement of Messi’s move to Major League Soccer (MLS) came as a shock to the football world. After spending two successful years with Paris Saint-Germain, the seven-time Ballon d’Or winner decided to embark on a new chapter in his illustrious career, choosing to join Inter Miami. By joining the MLS, Messi fulfills a significant aspiration, as he had previously led Argentina to a World Cup victory, a feat that had long eluded him.

At the age of 36, Messi’s decision to join Inter Miami marks an exciting milestone for both the player and the club. With his arrival, Inter Miami solidifies its position as a force to be reckoned with in American soccer. The club has confirmed that Messi’s contract will earn him an annual salary between $50 million and $60 million, showcasing the magnitude of this historic signing.

Before his arrival in South Florida, Messi spent time in Argentina, engaging in a series of friendly matches to bid farewell to former teammates. These special celebrity games were held to honor Juan Roman Riquelme in Buenos Aires and Maxi Rodriguez in Messi’s hometown of Rosario. Following these heartfelt matches, Messi took some well-deserved vacation time before embarking on his new journey with Inter Miami.

The anticipation surrounding Lionel Messi’s debut in the MLS has reached fever pitch. As fans eagerly await his first match on July 21st, the sense of excitement and optimism is tangible. Inter Miami CF has successfully secured one of the greatest football talents of our time, a player whose arrival is sure to elevate the profile of the club and the league as a whole. With Messi’s extraordinary skills and unmatched prowess, the stage is set for a thrilling new chapter in American soccer.