Inter Miami CF's iconic player, Lionel Messi, is poised to take on his childhood club, Newell's Old Boys, in a preseason friendly match this February, a confirmation that came from both teams on Monday.

This encounter marks a significant moment as it will be the first time Messi faces the club where he initially honed his football skills.

The captain of the Argentina national team began his football journey with Newell's youth team in his hometown, Rosario, playing for them until the age of 13 when he made the pivotal move to FC Barcelona.

For Inter Miami coach Gerardo Martino, this match holds a special significance. Martino, who debuted as a player with Newell's in 1980, boasts the record for the most appearances in the club's history.

Expressing his enthusiasm, Martino stated, "I am delighted to welcome my beloved Newell's to our home here in Miami. It will be a special match due to everything Newell's Old Boys means to me. It will also be a good opportunity to prepare for what will surely be an exciting season."

Martino's connection with Newell's goes beyond his playing days. As a head coach, he achieved success by winning four titles, including one in 2013.

"We're very pleased to be able to play this exciting preseason match at home in front of our fans at DRV PNK Stadium," commented Chief Soccer Officer and Sporting Director Chris Henderson. "This match against Newell's is a great addition to a set of matches that will put us in the best position possible to compete in 2024. We're excited for what is ahead."

The addition of this friendly match brings Miami's preseason schedule to six friendlies before the commencement of the next MLS season.

Miami's international tour kicks off in San Salvador on January 19 with a match against the El Salvador national team. The journey continues in Saudi Arabia, featuring two games against Al Hilal on January 29 and Al Nassr led by Cristiano Ronaldo on February 1. On February 4, Messi and Inter Miami will face a team comprising top players from the First Division league in Hong Kong. The tour concludes with a game at the Japan National Stadium on February 7 against Vissel Kobe.