Expansion

Miami Messi? Argentine superstar congratulates Beckham on MLS expansion

Lionel Messi - Argentina - Copa America - smile

Lionel Messi was one of many iconic personalities to extend greetings to David Beckham on Monday, as the Englishman’s Miami MLS project was officially granted status as an expansion club.


And with one parting quip, Messi sent tongues wagging around the world.



“First of all, congratulations,” said Messi, in Spanish, in a social media video. “I wanted to wish you all the best in this project, this new role for you. And who knows, maybe in a few years you can give me a call.”


The Argentinean attacker is an FC Barcelona lifer, a global megastar under contract with one of the biggest clubs on the planet until 2021, on a massive deal with an astronomical buyout clause reportedly approaching $1 billion.


All those realities won’t stop the speculation that has already erupted about a future MLS move for him. On Monday, Beckham alluded to many conversations he’s had with top players interested in joining his Miami project when it takes the field, a milestone tentatively set for 2020.


Miami’s climate, beaches and culture have given it a global reputation, with many current and former soccer stars buying property in South Florida or visiting on holiday over the years.


Beckham and Messi, now age 30, faced off in La Liga play on many occasions during Beckham’s stint with Barcelona’s hated rivals Real Madrid, a period which coincided with Messi’s rise through the Barça ranks from teenage phenom to superstar.


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