As the 2024 MLS Supporters' Shield winner, Inter Miami earned a place in the 2025 Club World Cup as a host country representative. That, in turn, means Messi will be taking part in a FIFA tournament this summer, albeit one where he isn't representing Argentina.

Lionel Messi and a heavy security presence were on show as the revamped Club World Cup got under way in the United States on Saturday. Host city side Inter Miami, led by Argentine legend Messi, played out an entertaining goalless again Egyptian giants Al Ahly to kick off the tournament.

FIFA Club World Cup is starting this weekend and there are many expectations for the world stars to deliver starting June 14 in the United States for the first edition of the new 32-team format. As the squads travelling to the US were announced on Wednesday,