Messi Receives Honorary River Plate Membership After Argentina Duty
Lionel Messi has returned to the United States to link up with Inter Miami after completing his latest Argentina assignment, capped by an honorary membership from River Plate at the Estadio Monumental.
River Plate mark Messi’s Monumental connection
River formally welcomed Messi as an honorary club member shortly before Argentina’s match against Benin on Tuesday, October 6. The ceremony was held privately in the Presidential Office at the Monumental, with River president Stefano Di Carlo taking part.
Messi was handed a club membership card, a commemorative plaque and a special River shirt produced for the club’s 125th anniversary, carrying his name and the No. 10.
Di Carlo presented the honour as recognition of Messi’s long-standing contribution to Argentine football and his two decades as the central figure for the national side.
A decisive final night at Argentina’s key venue
The Monumental has been a defining stadium in Messi’s international career. He scored his first goal there against Uruguay in 2008 and went on to make 28 appearances at the ground, scoring 19 times.
His record at the Buenos Aires stadium includes hat-tricks against Bolivia. The latest occasion added another memorable performance as Messi scored once and created two goals in Argentina’s 3-0 win over Benin before a full house.
- Messi opened his Monumental scoring record against Uruguay in 2008.
- He built a return of 19 goals from 28 Argentina appearances at the stadium.
- River inducted him as an honorary member before the Benin fixture.
- He finished the 3-0 victory with one goal and two assists.
- Messi then departed for Miami ahead of the MLS run-in.
Inter Miami focus begins immediately
With his international commitments now finished, Messi’s next priority is Inter Miami’s push for the strongest possible position ahead of the MLS Cup play-offs.
The 39-year-old will be expected to play a major role during the closing domestic schedule, although managing his fitness will be crucial before the knockout phase begins.
Key takeaways
- River Plate have made Messi an honorary member of the club.
- The presentation included a membership card, plaque and 125th-anniversary No. 10 shirt.
- Messi registered a goal and two assists against Benin.
- His Monumental record stands at 19 goals in 28 appearances.
- Inter Miami now have Messi back for their play-off seeding battle.
