Messi picks up the keys to his new home, Miami

November 7 – What do you give to the man who has everything? In the case of Lionel Messi, it’s the keys to the city of Miami.

Presented by Miami Mayor, Francis Suarez, Messi, who rarely speaks publicly, said: “Thank you, I feel very honored by this,” Messi said. “We feel very loved, very grateful, very happy to be living in this city, and to be able to have this distinction for me is a great honour.”

Suarez was equally gushing. “I have had the wish to give this [key] to you for all that you’ve done for our grand city, our country and the world of football, thank you.”

Inter Miami co-owner Jorge Mas also took the moment to celebrate his captain. “This is a small gift from this city, which has captured the hearts of all of us,” Mas said. “This is a welcome not only for you but also for wife Antonela and your beautiful family, so that you can always feel at home here.”

The honour comes as Messi continues to dominate Major League Soccer. He’s the 2024 MLS MVP, the 2025 Golden Boot winner, and again a finalist for this season’s MVP award.

Messi reflected on how far he’s come since his emotional exit from Barcelona and difficult adjustment to life in Paris with PSG. “The truth is that the first time we moved to Paris was tough because we’d lived our whole lives in Barcelona,” he said.

Now, Miami feels different. “It was a family decision; we decided to pursue my professional career in Miami,” he said. “After I arrived, it was spectacular. Living in this city for the first time is incredible.”

Messi spoke as Inter Miami’s new stadium nears completion. “I’m happy in this place,” he said. “I’m really looking forward to it being finished, to be able to play here.”

Contact the writer of this story at moc.l1762479532labto1762479532ofdlr1762479532owedi1762479532sni@r1762479532etsbe1762479532w.kci1762479532n1762479532