The Making of Messi

Part Three - Leaving a Legacy

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Episode notes

In the third and final episode of this documentary series, presenter Mike Zimmermann explores the legacy that Lionel Messi will leave behind.

Matt Slater explains the motives behind the Saudi Pro League, and why Messi turned down nearly half $1 billion annually in favor of Major League Soccer.

The relationship between Messi and Inter Miami started back in 2018 — Paul Tenorio takes us through the initial interest from Miami, the inner workings of a contract that includes equity and profit-sharing from Apple and Adidas, and how Messi will change Major League Soccer, both on the field and off.

With MLS and Apple partnered for the next 10 years, a broadcast deal worth $2.5 billion, Richard Deitsch describes Lionel Messi's arrival in the US as "a massive catalyst" for Apple's soccer coverage and the media landscape.

You'll also hear from Andrés Cantor, legendary Telemundo Deportes broadcaster, about how Messi is viewed in Argentina leading up to the 2024 Copa America and 2026 World Cup, both being played in the United States.

Produced by Mike Zimmermann.