The South American nation of Argentina has established a strong presence in the vibrant city of Miami. The recent inauguration of the Asociación del Fútbol Argentino (AFA) US headquarters in Miami, in addition to the development of a national team training facility, the establishment of a new AFA youth academy, and the initiation of a sports leadership program at Florida International University, all signify a growing and significant relationship with the city. This move also coincides with Lionel Messi’s decision to select Miami as a potential destination to conclude his club career.
Miami has emerged as a focal point for Argentinians seeking a better quality of life. Leandro Petersen, AFA chief marketing officer, has noted a substantial increase in the number of Argentinians starting businesses and finding a sense of familiarity in Miami. Indeed, Messi himself felt a profound connection with the warmth and cultural similarities of the city when making decisions regarding his family life. Plans for the Miami base were set in motion as early as 2019, well before Argentina’s recent Copa América and World Cup victories, highlighting a fortunate alignment for the national team.
The association extends to the club level, with Messi and his team making use of Inter Miami’s facilities for their pre-tournament preparations. The presence of 14 Argentinian players in just four seasons in the MLS side illustrates the strong bond between Argentina and Miami. Furthermore, the current Inter Miami squad includes eight players of Argentinian descent, including Messi, thereby further solidifying the ties between the two entities.
For Argentinian nationals residing in south Florida, the presence of the national team is a source of solace. The congregation of fans at the tournament’s official fanzone serves as evidence of the community’s fervent support for their national team. This sentiment is echoed by Mariano Codaro, co-owner of Loretta & The Butcher, a restaurant in Coconut Grove, who emphasized the significance of having the national team in Miami. The impact of Argentina’s presence extends beyond the football pitch and serves as a cultural touchstone for the community.
As anticipation grows for Argentina’s matches in Miami, there is a poignant awareness that this may be one of the final opportunities for fans to witness Messi play for La Albiceleste. Federico Saint Germain, an Argentinian reporter based in Miami, emphasized the significance of these games as potentially being Messi’s last, with fans eager to witness the football legend in action.
The establishment of the Fanzone Albiceleste AFA: The House of Futbol, a temporary Argentinian football museum, further cements the connection between Argentina and Miami. Former players are scheduled to greet fans, and the Argentina squad will visit the Fanzone prior to the knockout rounds. This presents a significant opportunity for the national team to engage with the community and leave a lasting impression.
In conclusion, Argentina’s presence in Miami not only signifies the development of a deeper relationship with the city, but also serves as a poignant acknowledgement of the potential conclusion of Messi’s illustrious career. The impact of the national team’s presence in Miami extends beyond the realm of sports, serving as a unifying cultural force for the Argentinian community in the city and beyond.