Lionel Messi Set for Argentina Return with Inter Miami in January 2027 Friendly

Inter Miami is scheduled to play a pre-season friendly against Argentine powerhouse River Plate on January 19, 2027, at Estadio Monumental in Buenos Aires. Organized by the private investment fund COC Global, the historic matchup marks the first-ever meeting between the two clubs and provides a homecoming for Lionel Messi following his recent international retirement.

The fixture will take place at the 85,018-capacity stadium where Messi made his final international appearance in October, securing a 3-0 victory over Benin with a goal and two assists in front of roughly 85,000 fans. The venue holds deep significance for the 39-year-old forward, who scored a record 20 international goals at the stadium and celebrated Argentina's 2022 World Cup triumph there with supporters.

According to official statements from both clubs, the event aims to transcend the standard ninety minutes on the pitch and highlight the expanding international footprint of both organizations. The game falls roughly a month after the conclusion of the MLS season, arriving as Inter Miami and River Plate navigate their respective domestic campaigns.

What to watch next: Inter Miami continues its current campaign with the first leg of their first-round series against the Columbus Crew on November 21.