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Irish Mirror
Irish Mirror
Sport
Charlie Wilson

Lionel Messi shortlisted for award he's never won - and Inter Miami influence is clear

Lionel Messi has been named one of four finalists to win the men's ESPY award in 2023.

It will be the first time that the 35-year-old superstar has been nominated for the award - and it coincides with the year that he is heading to the United States to continue his legacy.

Messi sensationally announced that he will be joining Inter Miami after leaving PSG as a free agent - playing for the team owned by David Beckham.

The Argentinian had offers from his former club FC Barcelona, as well as a huge offer from Saudi Pro League club Al-Hilal, but ultimately chose a move to the MLS.

Messi already has a property in Miami which would have been a factor in his decision to join, while it is believed that with Apple and Adidas involved in the deal, the Argentinian will take home a slice of the profits of MLS Season Pass and any merchandise sales.

It remains to be seen whether Messi can add another trophy to his vast collection, but he will have a strong case after leading Argentina to winning the World Cup - with him finally capturing the trophy he's chased throughout his career.

After winning the World Cup, Messi has spoken that he feels he has nothing more to prove in the sport, which is also a factor in why he is moving to the MLS.

And Messi is expected to be present at the ESPY's, with Patrick Mahomes ( Kansas City Chiefs quarterback and Super Bowl winner), Nikola Jokic (Denver Nuggets and NBA champion) and Aaron Judge (New York Yankees and Home Run record breaker) as the other three candidates.

Messi has been nominated for an ESPY for the first time (Lintao Zhang/Getty Images)

Speaking to Bein Sports, he said: "I’ve achieved everything in football. There is nothing left."

The legendary Argentinian has indeed achieved everything at club level, after capturing 10 league titles with Barcelona, along with seven Copa del Rey trophies and four Champions League wins.

Prior to 2021, Messi had not had any international silverware, but won the Copa America in 2021 before following that up with the World Cup 18 months later - defeating France in dramatic fashion.

It has been suggested that Messi's contract could be similar to Beckham's that he signed with the LA Galaxy in 2007 - with him potentially offered the chance to buy an expansion franchise after he retires.

Since signing Messi, Inter Miami have added his long-term Barcelona teammate Sergio Busquets, with former manager Gerardo Martino also joining.

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