Lionel Messi officially signs with Inter Miami CF

Lionel Messi's contract with Inter Miami CF became official on Saturday, and his highly anticipated MLS debut will likely take place on Friday against Cruz Azul in the Coupe des Ligues.

Messi, who turned 36 on June 24, announced on June 7 that he would join Miami after leaving Paris Saint-Germain.

His contract with Miami will last until the end of the 2025 season and will be worth between 50 and 60 million dollars per year.

"I am very happy to start this next stage of my career with Inter Miami and in the United States," Messi said.

"This is a fantastic opportunity and together we will continue to build this beautiful project.

"The idea is to work together to achieve the goals we have set for ourselves, and I can't wait to start helping out here in my new home."

Messi led Argentina to their first World Cup success since 1986 in Qatar last year, and the Barcelona great has won the Ballon d'Or trophy seven times.

"We are delighted that the greatest player in the world has chosen Inter Miami CF and Major League Soccer, and his decision is a testament to the momentum and energy that underpins our League and our sport in North America," MLS commissioner Don Garber said. .

"We have no doubt that Lionel will show the world that MLS can be a league of choice for the best players in the game.

"We can't wait to see his debut for Inter Miami in our League Cup tournament later this month."