Is Lionel Messi playing in Inter Miami vs NYCFC friendly? Why Noche d'Or match is happening in November

Inter Miami's 2023 competitive campaign may be over, but the club will take the field for one final time this calendar year.

The MLS side will play a friendly against fellow U.S. team New York City FC on Friday, November 10 to celebrate Lionel Messi's eighth Ballon d'Or and give him a fitness boost for upcoming international duty as well.

The match at DRV PNK Stadium, streamed live globally on Apple TV, will be the final chance for fans to honor the achievements of the Argentina great and give him a good send-off before 2024.

As Messi prepares for Argentina's November international fixtures, including a massive World Cup qualifier against rivals Brazil, this match will serve as a chance for him to remain fit despite Inter Miami's failure to extend their competitive season into the ongoing MLS playoffs.

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While it's unlikely he will play the full 90 minutes, Lionel Messi is likely to play some part in this match.

Inter Miami head coach Tata Martino confirmed that Messi will play in the game. "Friday is an opportunity to compete again, for fans to see Leo and his teammates on the pitch again, and to say goodbye to the season," Martino said.

"We want to join him in celebrating his eighth Ballon d'Or," Martino continued. "It's a chance for people to see it again. I don't know if it's for 90 minutes."

The game has been arranged for his benefit, and his honor, after all. The Argentine won yet another Ballon d'Or trophy in late October, giving him eight across his illustrious career, the most of anyone in history.

"Friday is an opportunity to compete again, for fans to see Leo and his teammates on the pitch again, and to say goodbye to the season. It