Miami has been bracing for the arrival of global soccer superstar Lionel Messi since it was reported in June that the Argentinian forward would join the MLS. Fans will finally get to see Messi in action after weeks of hype, with the 36-year-old taking the pitch for the first time Friday with his new club, Inter Miami.
All the fanfare and excitement around Messi’s U.S. debut have translated to dollars, as ticket prices for Miami’s Leagues Cup match against Cruz Azul at DRV PNK Stadium have skyrocketed (by as much as 1,000%, per Forbes). Seats have been in high demand since rumors of the deal emerged, culminating with the club officially announcing Messi’s historic signing on July 15.