It's been over a month since Lionel Messi bid farewell to international football. His last game for Argentina was on home soil in an international friendly vs Benin on October 6. But now the 39-year-old is on the cusp of another historical moment. We could see Messi play his first senior game at home as Inter Miami are set to play a friendly vs River Plate in 2027.

Historical Appearance on the Cards for Lionel Messi

The deal is reportedly almost final and when it does happen, home fans shall get to see Messi in a club jersey for the first time. The legend has never featured in a competitive senior club fixture in Argentina.

© X/Inter Miami CF

Why Is It So?

The reason for that is simple. Messi left his homeland at the age of 13 to join Barcelona's La Masia academy. He eventually made his senior club debut with Barcelona in 2004 and was with them till 2021. Messi then moved to PSG and is now with Inter Miami since 2023. While Messi has faced Argentine clubs, none of those games have taken place on home soil. So this will be a historic 1st for LM10.

Lionel Messi Loves Buenos Aires’ Monumental Stadium

The venue for the match is Buenos Aires’ Monumental Stadium. This was where Messi signed off his international career. For Argentina, he has scored 20 goals in 29 games with 11 assists at this venue, which shows the deep connection he has with it.

© X/Inter Miami CF

Lionel Messi Has Faced River Plate Before

This is not the first time Messi will face River Plate. While representing Barcelona, he took them on in the FIFA Club World Cup final in 2015 and scored the opening goal. Barcelona won the game 3-0 to lift the trophy.

A Legend on His Way Out

Messi is in the twilight of his career. It truly will be special if he can play one club game at senior level in Argentina before calling it a day. If it actually proved to be his last game, that would make the occasion even more special.