Inter Miami Announce Sergio Busquets Signing 24 Hours After Confirming Lionel Messi Move

Inter Miami have announced the signing of Sergio Busquets. The Spaniard joins only 24 hours after his former Barcelona teammate Lionel Messi was confirmed by the team.

The 35-year-old enjoyed a successful 15-year stint in Spain and has joined his friend in the MLS. Following his move, the 2010 World Cup winner said: "This is a special and exciting opportunity that I’m very excited to take. I’m looking forward to this next step in my career with Inter Miami.

"I was impressed by the Club when I came with Barcelona last year and now I’m happy and ready to represent the Club myself. I can’t wait to help bring the success that this ambitious Club strives for."

Managing owner Jorge Mas added: “I am excited to welcome Sergio Busquets to Inter Miami. Since day one we have set out to bring the world’s best players to Inter Miami. Sergio’s repertoire speaks for itself. We’re very happy to bring somebody of Sergio’s pedigree to Inter Miami."

The midfielder is regarded as one of the best of his generation and has an impressive resume to go along with his elite ability. Busquets made 721 appearances for Barcelona, scoring 19 goals and registering 40 assists. He has won nine La Liga nine titles three UEFA Champions League titles, seven Copa del Rey crowns and three FIFA Club World Cup trophies.

Along with Spain's World Cup success 13 years ago, Busquets was a key cog in the national team that captured two successive European Championship titles in 2008 and 2012. He made 143 appearances for his country and is the third most capped player in the team's history. His wealth of experience will prove vital to Inter Miami who are currently at the bottom of the MLS Eastern Conference with just 18 points.

"He is one of the smartest players to ever play the sport; he reads the game at an unprecedented level and impacts every facet of play,” said Chief Soccer Officer and Sporting Director Chris Henderson. “Sergio is a winner, a leader and a world-class talent, and we’re excited to see him represent our franchise.”

Busquets will first be available to make his debut when Inter Miami takes on LIGA MX side, Cruz Azul on July 21. This will be the opening match of a new North American tournament called the Leagues Cup.