On July 16, Lionel Messi was officially introduced as a new player for Inter Miami in front of a packed DRV PNK Stadium.
Despite heavy rainfall that threatened to disrupt the event and resulted in a delayed start time, enthusiastic fans filled the venue to witness the arrival of arguably one of Major League Soccer’s greatest-ever signings.
Among the first individuals to make their appearance was David Beckham, one of the franchise owners.
As he stepped onto the wet surface, he nearly slipped but quickly regained his balance, extending his hands for support.
Nevertheless, the inclement weather failed to dampen the spirits of those in attendance.
As the Daily Mail reports, his co-owner Jorge Mas appeared to make fun of the situation as he also held out his hands, pretending to fall over as well.
David Beckham effortlessly handled the slip during Messi's presentation 😅
— Sports Gist (@theSportsGist) July 17, 2023
Bernardo | My Captain | Thiago Silva | Kimmich | akrobeto | DSTV | Messi pic.twitter.com/MPJjskXA6z
With the whole world watching and luckily for Beckham, he did not slip. Soon after, Messi followed in tow and was presented to the enthusiastic fans.
Beckham then gave an emotional speech as he welcomed the seven-time Ballon d’Or winner.
“Please forgive me for feeling a little bit emotional tonight. It really is a dream come true to welcome Lionel Messi to Inter Miami.”
He then went down memory lane of the things he wanted to achieve when he went into club ownership after retirement.
“10 years ago, I started my journey to build a new MLS team. I said then that I dreamt of bringing the best players in the world to Florida and the great city of Miami.
Players who shared our ambition to grow soccer in this country, who would inspire the next generation and help build a legacy in this sport.”
Messi is set to make his debut on Friday when Inter Miami play Cruz Azul in the League’s Cup.
Messi trolled after Miami defeat
Sports Brief also reported that following Inter Miami’s disappointing loss to St. Louis City on July 15, a football fan found delight in the Florida-based club’s defeat and took the opportunity to taunt new signing Lionel Messi indirectly.
Inter Miami has been struggling throughout the ongoing season, as evidenced by their third defeat in their last six games and an 11-game winless streak.
St. Louis City secured their victory with first-half goals from Samuel Adeniran and Tim Parker and a late strike from Eduard Lowen, pushing Inter Miami to the bottom of the Eastern Conference in Major League Soccer (MLS).