Casemiro signs with Inter Miami, citing Messi as reason

Brazilian midfielder Casemiro has officially joined Inter Miami, describing his new teammate Lionel Messi as "one of the gods, if not the god of football." The 34-year-old former Manchester United and Real Madrid star was formally introduced by the Major League Soccer club on Thursday, July 30, 2026, after signing a contract through 2027 with an option for a further two years.

Casemiro, who arrived as a free agent, stated that the opportunity to play alongside Messi was the primary reason for his move, leading him to reject offers from clubs in Italy and elsewhere. "For me, without a doubt, I am coming only to play with the best player of all time," Casemiro said. "I want to enjoy it, I want to help him to keep winning because he is a winner." He reflected on their past as rivals during the intense El Clásico matches between Real Madrid and Barcelona, noting, "I know he's impossible to stop. I never managed it. I always needed help from my teammates."

The defensive midfielder has already integrated into the squad, making his competitive debut in a 1-0 away victory over CF Montreal on Saturday, July 25. Messi did not play in that match as he continues to regain fitness following...