Lionel Messi will be given a key to the city of Fort Lauderdale following his seismic move to Inter Miami.
The 36-year-old World Cup winner – considered by many to be the greatest player of all time – was unveiled by the Major League Soccer club on Sunday night.
Messi is set to make his Inter Miami debut on Friday night, against Mexican side Cruz Azul in the Leagues Cup.
Among those hoping to be at the game at DRV PNK Stadium is Fort Lauderdale mayor Dean J. Trantalis, who will give Messi and his family a gift to welcome them to South Florida.
‘I’m planning to attend the first game and we hope to meet him,’ Trantalis told Mail Sport.
Lionel Messi gave an emotional speech as he was unveiled as an Inter Miami player on Sunday
Messi, considered by many to be the greatest player ever, is set to make his debut on Friday
Dean Trantalis revealed to Mail Sport that he plans to give Messi a key to the city
‘On behalf of the city, I will be presenting him with a key to the city, to show that we have an open door and an open heart for him and his family as they make their home here in Fort Lauderdale.
Trantalis has also shot a commercial to introduce Messi to his new home, partnering with local businesses and residents to show the Argentinian clan the best of Fort Lauderdale.
‘It’s good times in the world of soccer here in South Florida,’ Trantalis added.
The hope is that Messi’s move will help transform soccer in the United States, with Inter Miami co-owner Jorge Mas describing the 36-year-old as: ‘your No 10, Miami’s No 10, America’s No 10’.
Fans flocked to Fort Lauderdale to catch a glimpse of Messi at DRV PNK Stadium on Sunday
Mas introduced Messi to the 20,000 supporters who gathered at PNK DRV Stadium, after a storm threatened to rain on the club’s parade.
‘Tonight is a gift and celebration to the city that opened its arms to my family,’ said the Cuban-American businessman.
‘Tonight we are doing this in the rain. This is holy water! This is our moment! Our moment to change the football landscape in this country.
‘When David (Beckham) and I first met and we dreamt of what Inter Miami represents, it started off with the freedom to dream.
‘And we dreamed of not only bringing elite players and the best players but the best player to ever don boots — and his name is Lionel Andres Messi.’
Read More: World News | Entertainment News | Celeb News
Mail Online
