Lionel Messi is making an appearance with Inter Miami for one last time this year.
Inter Miami will be marking the celebration of Mess’s eighth Ballon d’Or award on Friday evening with a friendly against New York City FC at DRV PNK Stadium. The match will be broadcasted on Apple TV starting at 8 p.m. EST.
Messi is anticipated to participate and start, wrapping up his first season with the MLS club before Inter Miami shifts focus to the next year.
“He is the great architect of this match, and not only do we have to accompany him in the celebration of his eighth Ballon d’Or, but it is also an opportunity to compete again, even if it is at a friendly level, so that people can see Leo and his teammates on the field, and as well to say goodbye to the season,” Inter Miami coach Tata Martino said.
Time, TV channel for Messi, Inter Miami match vs. NYCFC?
The match begins at 8 p.m., and will be broadcast on Apple TV.
Zidane says Messi is ‘pure magic’ in Adidas conversation
Zinedine Zidane and Messi had an extended conversation during a September Inter Miami match, which was posted on the Adidas YouTube channel this week.
“It’s a pity that we couldn’t play together,” Zidane told Messi. “This is the moment for me to pass you the ball.”
Zidane also said to Messi: “Today is a very important day for me because I can tell him how much I admire him… I think it is magic, pure magic.”
Watch the interview here.
Will Messi play in Inter Miami friendly?
Martino mentioned that Messi may not play the entire friendly against NYCFC.
“I am not sure if he will play the full 90 minutes, but he will play,” Martino said this week.
While the match serves as a final tune-up for Inter Miami’s offseason, it could also serve as preparation for two 2026 World Cup qualifying matches with Argentina later this month.
Inter Miami will honor Messi’s 8th Ballon d’Or Award
The friendly against NYCFC, named Noche d’Or by the club, will see Messi honored on the field at 7:45 p.m. before play gets underway.
Messi, Inter Miami managing owner Jorge Mas and MLS Commissioner Don Garber are expected to speak. Messi’s Ballon d’Or trophy will also be presented to the fans at DRV PNK Stadium.
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Is Messi playing tonight? How to watch Inter Miami vs. NYCFC friendly
Michael Johnson is your soccer guru, providing extensive coverage of soccer. With a global perspective, he delivers match reports, player interviews, and insights into the beautiful game, ensuring readers stay connected to the world of soccer.
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