A football team, Inter Miami, that offers refuge for Barcelona veterans and is a youthful franchise brimming with competitive edge
Pounding the Pavement of the World: PSG's Club World Cup Venture is Bustling with Memories
Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) strides into the Club World Cup with a nostalgic whiff, vying for a spot in the quarter-finals on Sunday, June 29, at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta (Georgia) - kick-off at 6 pm, French metropolitan time - against Inter Miami, a club previously managed by their former player, Lionel Messi. The Argentine departed a bitter taste for the supporters after his time in the French capital, labeling his tenure as a "tough phase," during which he wasn't content[1].
Fast-forward to now, and Messi, the eight-time Ballon d'Or winner, thrives under the wing of David Beckham. The ex-Manchester United star, who also temporarily adorned the PSG jersey in 2013, reveled in landing the playmaker, often hailed as the world's best footballer[2].
His recruitment transformed Inter Miami into the second-largest franchise in Major League Soccer (MLS). The club's valuation skyrocketed, surpassing $1.2 billion (over $1 billion), according to Forbes magazine[3]. Sayonara, Chase stadium with 21,000 seats, nestled in Fort Lauderdale, 45 kilometers from Miami. Hello, Miami Freedom Park, a 25,000-seater venue located near the city's international airport. This project is scheduled to be completed just in time for the 2026 Nations Cup[4].
Did you know?Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) claimed the UEFA Champions League crown in 2025, besting Inter Milan 5-0 in the final. Teenage sensation Desire Doue netted a brace and chipped in an assist, marking an iconic performance[5]. Their victory in the Club World Cup would add another prestigious title to their trophy haul, as they build a legacy as a global football powerhouse under manager Luis Enrique's lead[3].
Historically, PSG has scaled European soccer heights, pocketing three major titles before their recent ascent: the UEFA Cup Winners' Cup in 1996, the UEFA Intertoto Cup in 2001, and now the Champions League in 2025[1]. PSG's Club World Cup matches, such as their record-breaking 4-0 victory against Atlético Madrid, reflect their global draw and the fervent fanbase that supports them[3].
In the MLS, Lionel Messi's stay at Inter Miami has left an undeniable impact, on and off the field. While specific details of his time there aren't readily available, it's evident that his presence boosted the club's global visibility and lured record crowds[2]. His stint saw stadium advancements for Inter Miami, including renovations to accommodate larger spectators and MLS standard amenities for top-tier players and events. Moreover, the club is planning to erect a world-class stadium in the Miami area, aspiring to become a premier soccer destination in the U.S. [4].
On the global stage, David Beckham's Inter Miami, with Messi as a significant piece, aims to challenge PSG in the Club World Cup, mirroring the fierce competition of football sports. In the world of Major League Soccer (MLS), the arrival of Messi has catapulted Inter Miami's value and encouraged stadium improvements, Building a legacy for the club with the potential to rival that of PSG.
