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Messi returns to Buenos Aires with Inter Miami to face River Plate in January 2027

After announcing his international retirement in October, Lionel Messi will return to Argentina on January 19, 2027 for a friendly match between Inter Miami and River Plate at the Monumental stadium in Buenos Aires.

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Messi returns to Buenos Aires with Inter Miami to face River Plate in January 2027
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Lionel Messi will take the pitch at the Monumental stadium in Buenos Aires on January 19, 2027, this time wearing the Inter Miami shirt, for a friendly match against River Plate. The Argentine club officially announced the fixture on Friday on its social media, with the message: “A Monumental clash is coming: River Plate versus Inter Miami.”

Messi’s return to this venue carries particular significance: it was there that he played his last match in the Albiceleste shirt in early October, during a 3-0 victory over Benin, before announcing his international retirement. The 2022 World Cup champion should this time be warmly welcomed by the Argentine public, even as an opponent.

Several of his usual Inter Miami teammates are also announced for this trip, including Nicolás Otamendi and Rodrigo De Paul. Casemiro, who arrived last summer from Manchester United, is also expected in the Florida squad.

Luis Suárez, whose contract with Inter Miami expires on December 31, 2026, also appears on the promotional poster published by River Plate, suggesting that the Uruguayan could extend his time at the club or at least participate in this tour. However, nothing has been officially confirmed at this stage regarding his future with the club.

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