MIAMI.- Lionel Messi announced this Tuesday the launch in December in Miami of a young promising tournament in which clubs such as the Barcelona and the Manchester City and which will be called “Messi Cup”.
“Finally I can tell you that in December there is a very special tournament for promising young players in Miami, with several of the best clubs in the world,” the Argentine star announced to his 507 million followers on Instagram.
“There are also going to be many more activities those days. I hope you like it! #MessiCup,” added the current star of the Inter Miami of the North American League (MLS).
In a statement, Inter indicated that it will be one of the eight U-16 teams that will compete in the Messi Cup.
Two other participants will be Argentine: River Plate and Newell’s Old Boys, Messi’s childhood club in Rosario.
Barcelona, the team where they were formed and won all possible titles, and four other European teams will also compete: Manchester City, Atlético de Madrid, Inter Milan and Chelsea.
The competition will consist of 18 matches that will be played between December 9 and 14 at the Inter Miami sports center in Fort Lauderdale (Florida).
The final will take place at Chase Stadium, Inter’s home ground, with capacity for around 22,000 spectators.
“More than a tournament, it is a series of live events and a digital platform that fuses sport, culture and innovation,” Inter said.
“Its mission is to generate long-term value: for athletes building their future, for communities united by the passion of the game and for brands seeking authentic and lasting partnerships in the new era of football,” he added.
The Messi Cup is organized by 525 Rosario, a sports and entertainment production company founded last year by the Argentine star.
Beyond Miami
According to its website, the tournament intends to expand beyond Miami with qualifying phases and future editions in other host cities.
“The Messi Cup is the meeting point between the football of today and the players of tomorrow,” said Tim Pastore, CEO of 525 Rosario, in a statement.
Messi, 38, has not yet confirmed an agreement to renew his contract with Inter, which ends at the end of this year, but his relationship with the franchise goes far beyond his extraordinary performance on the pitch.
As part of this alliance, the Inter academy teams, in which his three young children play, will wear the footballer’s logo on their kits next season.
By hanging up his boots, the Albiceleste captain will have an option to acquire a stake in the franchise.
