Argentinian soccer star Lionel Messi has announced in Catalan media that he will be playing in Major League Soccer (MLS) next season. After his departure from FC Barcelona, Messi expressed his desire to avoid a similar situation and not relive past experiences. The football world has eagerly awaited Messi’s decision regarding his future, as the 35-year-old recently concluded his contract with Paris Saint-Germain, leaving several options open for him.

On Wednesday evening, the World Cup champion confirmed what multiple sources had been reporting since the afternoon: his move to Inter Miami in the MLS for the next two seasons.

“I really wanted it, I was very excited to come back (to Barcelona), but after experiencing what I went through and the way I left, I didn’t want to find myself in the same situation again, waiting to see what would happen and putting my future in someone else’s hands,” explained Messi to “Mundo Deportivo.”

When asked why he didn’t wait for a decision from Barcelona, especially since La Liga seemed ready to accept the club’s plan, Messi said, “When I had to leave, La Liga had also accepted that they could sign me, and in the end, it couldn’t happen. Well, I was afraid the same thing would happen again.”

The seven-time Ballon d’Or winner turned down a multi-million-euro offer from Saudi Arabian club Al Hilal and the rather vague offer from FC Barcelona, which had made him a priority for recruitment.

Messi’s arrival at Inter Miami could reunite him with several former Barcelona teammates. According to the Argentine newspaper “Olé,” the Florida-based club intends to hire Luis Suarez, Sergio Busquets, and coach Tata Martino to surround the Argentine star.

Inter Miami has been competing in the MLS since 2020 and is presided over by former Manchester United, Real Madrid, AC Milan, and PSG player David Beckham. The English international ended his career in the United States with the Los Angeles Galaxy before investing in the Florida-based club, of which he is also an owner.

In Florida, Messi will have the opportunity to prepare for the upcoming Copa America in 2024, which will take place in the United States, and perhaps even the next World Cup, set to be held in the three North American countries—United States, Canada, and Mexico—in 2026.

→ READ ALSO : Nicki Minaj Sued for Damaging Jewelry