Lionel Messi is scheduled to return to the Estadio Monumental in Buenos Aires for a friendly match on Jan. 19, 2027.
The Argentine club River Plate announced the upcoming exhibition on Friday, Nov. 13, according to Yahoo Sports.
Organizers are branding the high-profile contest as “un encuentro Monumental,” which translates to “a Monumental encounter,” per USA Today.
The event is expected to feature a star-studded lineup alongside the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner.
A news release highlighted that Messi will likely be joined on the pitch by Casemiro, Rodrigo De Paul and Luis Suárez.
The match will also showcase River Plate standouts Nicolás Otamendi and Thiago Almada, both of whom are veterans of the Argentina national team, as noted by the Yahoo Sports report.
River Plate is recognized as one of the most successful teams in Argentina, boasting 38 domestic titles and four Copa Libertadores championships.
The team is currently preparing for a playoff match against Lanus scheduled for Nov. 22.
On the same day, Inter Miami will begin its MLS Cup title defense with the first of a three-match playoff series against the Columbus Crew, according to USA Today.
The upcoming preseason schedule reflects a shift in strategy for Inter Miami.
While previous years saw the club embark on extensive tours across Asia and the Middle East, the team appears to be focusing more on the Americas this year.
This approach is designed to help the Herons prepare for a rigorous opening stretch that includes participation in the Concacaf Champions Cup.
The MLS season is set to begin on Feb. 19, marking a transition to a calendar that runs from summer through spring, as reported by USA Today.
Messi’s return to the iconic stadium marks a significant moment for local fans.
The match serves as a centerpiece of the club’s preparation before the domestic season intensifies in late February.