Staff Reporter

One of the world’s greatest footballers, Lionel Messi, is set to face his former club, Newell’s Old Boys, as Inter Miami has confirmed a friendly match against the Argentine side on 15 February.

Messi, who spent six years in the youth system at Newell’s Old Boys before joining Barcelona in 2000, will return to the club where he scored an impressive 234 goals and was part of the renowned ‘The Machine of ’87’ youth team.

The upcoming match, scheduled for the 15th of February, holds special significance for Messi, as he is a lifelong fan of Newell’s Old Boys, having been born in their city of Rosario.
Confirming this development, Gerardo “Tata” Martino has expressed his gratitude towards the arrangement.
“I am delighted to welcome my beloved Newell’s to our home here in Miami,” Martino said.
“It will be a special match due to everything Newell’s Old Boys means to me. It will also be a good opportunity to prepare for what will surely be an exciting season.”

The match will take place at Inter Miami’s DRV PNK Stadium in Fort Lauderdale. Chris Henderson, Inter Miami’s chief soccer officer and sporting director, expressed his satisfaction at the prospect of playing this exciting preseason match in front of their fans.

“We’re very pleased to be able to play this exciting preseason match at home in front of our fans at DRV PNK Stadium,” said Henderson.
“This match against Newell’s is a great addition to a set of matches that will put us in the best position possible to compete in 2024. We’re excited for what is ahead.”

Inter Miami recently announced their involvement in the tournament, which will include friendly games against Al Hilal and Al Nassr. Notably, this means that Messi will also have the opportunity to face off against his long-time rival Cristiano Ronaldo, as Al Nassr is Ronaldo’s current club.