The world of football has been set ablaze with the announcement that Lionel Messi, widely considered the greatest footballer of his generation, will leave Inter Miami CF and return to his boyhood club, Newell’s Old Boys, in Rosario, Argentina.
The decision has stunned fans and analysts alike, marking the end of a brief yet unforgettable chapter of Messi’s illustrious career in Major League Soccer (MLS). Here’s what we know about this monumental move and what it means for both Messi and Newell’s Old Boys.
After joining Inter Miami in the summer of 2023, Messi’s presence in MLS was nothing short of a revolution. The Argentine superstar helped elevate the profile of American soccer, leading Inter Miami to their first major trophy, the Leagues Cup, and captivating fans with his sublime skills and playmaking abilities. His performances in the United States were the stuff of legends, yet, Messi’s heart has always belonged to Argentina, and reports indicate that he is ready to return to his roots.
Messi’s decision to leave Miami after just a season and head back to Newell’s Old Boys is a deeply emotional one. The 36-year-old forward had long expressed a desire to end his career at the club where he started his professional journey. Messi spent his formative years at Newell’s Old Boys, developing his early footballing skills before moving to Barcelona’s famed La Masia academy at just 13 years old. His deep connection to the Argentine club has never been a secret, and his return has been on the cards for some time.
Newell’s Old Boys, founded in 1903, has been a powerhouse in Argentine football but has not reached the same level of international prominence as clubs like Boca Juniors or River Plate. Despite this, Newell’s has always maintained a strong, loyal fanbase. The prospect of Messi returning to play for his childhood club has sent the footballing world into a frenzy, with fans already dreaming of seeing the legendary forward don the iconic red and black stripes once again.
This announcement has already sparked celebrations in Rosario, with Newell’s fans calling this moment the realization of a dream long awaited. Messi’s influence has been felt across the globe, and his arrival would undoubtedly elevate the club’s stature and increase its global recognition.
Newell’s Old Boys president, Cristian D’Amico, shared his excitement at the news, stating, “It’s a historic moment for the club, the city, and the fans. Lionel Messi coming back to Newell’s is more than a transfer—it’s a dream that our supporters have had for decades. We are ready to give him a warm welcome and hope that this is the beginning of a new chapter for both him and the club.”
Messi’s impact on football cannot be overstated. The Argentine has won numerous individual accolades, including seven Ballon d’Ors, and has conquered virtually every competition at the club and international level. His spell at Barcelona was legendary, and his recent success with Argentina—leading them to a Copa América title in 2021 and the 2022 FIFA World Cup—has cemented his place in football history as one of the greatest players to ever play the game.
While Messi’s move to Newell’s Old Boys is a significant shift in his career, it is also seen as an opportunity for him to inspire the next generation of football talent in Argentina. His decision to leave the glamour of European and MLS football and return to the Argentine Primera División is expected to have a profound effect on the local football scene, much like how Diego Maradona’s return to Boca Juniors did in the past. Messi’s leadership and expertise could prove invaluable to Newell’s, both on and off the pitch.
This move could also mark a shift in the Argentine football culture, as Messi is expected to bring with him an influx of international attention and resources. Newell’s Old Boys could potentially become a more prominent destination for both domestic and foreign talent, reinvigorating Argentine football in ways that extend far beyond Messi’s playing days.
Messi’s departure from Inter Miami signals the end of a brief but transformative era in MLS. His time in the U.S. was marked by an immediate impact, bringing heightened attention to MLS and attracting new audiences. Inter Miami’s owners, including David Beckham, will likely be disappointed by Messi’s decision, but they can take solace in the legacy he leaves behind in the league. The challenge now for the club will be to continue building on the foundation Messi helped lay down, ensuring the continued growth of soccer in North America.
In conclusion, Lionel Messi’s decision to leave Inter Miami for Newell’s Old Boys is a poignant moment in football history. It signifies not only the return of one of the sport’s greatest talents to his roots but also the potential revitalization of a club that has always been close to his heart. As the world watches, fans will no doubt reflect on the incredible journey Messi has had and look forward to the next chapter in his storied career.
Leave a Reply