Confirmed Inter Miami preseason fixtures: Lionel Messi, Inter Miami friendlies for 2024 preseason

As Inter Miami prepares for the 2024 MLS season, Lionel Messi is set to have a significant break after the team’s early exit from the 2023 playoffs. The upcoming preseason will play a crucial role in building match fitness for the players, especially for Messi, who draws considerable attention wherever he goes.

The known preseason matches for Inter Miami in 2024 are as follows:

1. Friendly Matches in Saudi Arabia:
   • Inter Miami will face Al Nassr, Cristiano Ronaldo’s team, on February 1. This clash between Messi and Ronaldo is undoubtedly one of the most anticipated preseason fixtures.
   • Additionally, Inter Miami will play other matches during their time in Saudi Arabia.
2. Friendly Against NYCFC:
   • Originally planned as part of a two-match tour of China, this friendly against NYCFC was arranged as a replacement. The match is designed to honor Lionel Messi’s Ballon d’Or achievement.

While these are the confirmed and widely reported preseason fixtures for Inter Miami, it’s essential to note that the schedule might be subject to last-minute changes. The spotlight will undoubtedly be on Messi as he prepares for the upcoming season, and fans around the world eagerly await the clash between the soccer icons Messi and Ronaldo during the preseason friendlies.

Inter Miami’s preseason schedule for 2024 is shaping up to be an exciting and diverse set of matches. Here’s a summary of the confirmed and reported preseason friendlies:

1. El Salvador Draw (January 19):
   • Inter Miami traveled to San Sebastian to face the El Salvador national team in their first preseason friendly, resulting in a 0-0 draw.
   • Lionel Messi, Sergio Busquets, Jordi Alba, and new signing Luis Suarez played the first 45 minutes.
2. FC Dallas (January 22 at Cotton Bowl):
   • Inter Miami took on FC Dallas in a friendly at the Cotton Bowl, further adding to their busy preseason schedule.
3. Double-Header in Saudi Arabia:
   • Inter Miami participated in the annual Riyadh Season Cup showcase, playing two matches.
   • Match 1 against Al Hilal.
   • Match 2 against Al Nassr, featuring the clash between Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo on February 1.
4. Hong Kong Tour (February 4):
   • Inter Miami announced a tour of Asia, starting with a match against a collection of top players from the Hong Kong First Division at Hong Kong Stadium.
5. Tokyo Match against Vissel Kobe (Date not specified):
   • Following the Hong Kong match, Inter Miami will head to Tokyo to face J1 League champions Vissel Kobe at the Japan National Stadium.
   • The match will feature a special guest appearance by Andres Iniesta.
6. Newell’s Old Boys Friendly (Date not specified):
   • After the Asia tour, Inter Miami will host a friendly at DRV PNK Stadium against Newell’s Old Boys.
   • This match holds special significance as both Lionel Messi and coach Tata Martino have strong connections with the Argentine club.
7. Noche d’Or against NYCFC (November 10):
   • Originally planned as part of a two-match tour of China, the NYCFC friendly was arranged as a replacement.
   • The match, dubbed “Noche d’Or” (Night of Gold), was held at DRV PNK Stadium to honor Messi’s most recent Ballon d’Or.

The preseason tour includes matches in El Salvador, Saudi Arabia, Hong Kong, Tokyo, and a home game in the United States. The diverse locations and opponents make this preseason an exciting and challenging preparation for Inter Miami, featuring star-studded lineups and special events honoring Lionel Messi.