Inter Miami, the MLS team led by Lionel Messi, has recently announced its plans for a two-game postseason tour of China. This exciting endeavor aims to expand the club’s global reach and connect with fans around the world. In this article, we will explore Inter Miami’s upcoming tour, the significance of their participation, and the potential impact on both the team and its international fan base.
The Road to China
Just days after the conclusion of their 2023 MLS campaign, Inter Miami will embark on an adventure to face Chinese Super League sides, Qingdao Hainiu FC and Chengdu Rongcheng. The matches are scheduled for November 5th and 8th, respectively, offering the team an opportunity to showcase their talent and engage with passionate fans overseas.
Expanding Global Reach
Inter Miami’s Chief Business Officer, Xavier Asensi, expresses his excitement for the club’s continued global expansion. Asensi recognizes the importance of reaching new audiences and believes that this tour will enable Inter Miami to present themselves in new places, fostering a deeper connection with fans worldwide.
Messi: The Main Attraction
Despite being plagued by a hamstring injury, Lionel Messi’s presence on the field remains the main attraction for fans attending these two games in China. Having played only a limited number of matches recently, Messi’s return is eagerly anticipated. His remarkable performance throughout his first season with Miami, scoring 11 goals, underscores the significance of his involvement in these upcoming tour matches.
Chinese Super League’s Allure
China’s Super League has garnered attention in recent years due to its ability to attract high-profile Brazilian players such as Oscar, Hulk, Alex Teixeira, and Paulinho. While some of these players have since moved on, the league’s allure remains strong. Inter Miami’s tour provides a unique opportunity for the team to experience Chinese football firsthand and forge connections with local talent and clubs.
The tour serves as a platform for Inter Miami to build upon their successful 2023 campaign. Sporting Director and Chief Soccer Officer, Chris Henderson, acknowledges the importance of using this opportunity to prepare for the upcoming season. By starting their preparations early, Inter Miami aims to continue their growth and achieve even greater success in the future.
The tour will begin at Qingdao Hainiu’s impressive 50,000-seat stadium, which opened its doors in April. Qingdao Hainiu FC, led by Spanish coach Antonio Carreño, returned to the Chinese Super League in 2023 after consecutive promotions. Currently placed 13th out of 16 teams, the club aims to end their season on a positive note.
Chengdu Rongcheng, on the other hand, is a relatively young club that earned promotion to the Chinese top flight in 2022, finishing fifth in their debut season. With various accomplishments under their belt, they aim to secure a higher position within the league and prove themselves as a formidable opponent.
Inter Miami’s decision to embark on a two-game tour of China not only showcases their global ambitions but also provides an avenue for international growth and engagement. This tour offers an exceptional opportunity for the team to connect with fans worldwide, further expand their brand, and forge relationships with Chinese football clubs. As Inter Miami prepares for the future, this adventure in China marks the beginning of a new and thrilling chapter in their journey.
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