(Football News) In a reversal of previous statements, Inter Miami confirmed on Monday that it will indeed participate in the Riyadh Season Cup, a fact initially announced by Saudi officials on November 21. Inter Miami clarified that the reports circulating at that time were inaccurate.

The upcoming matches for Inter Miami include a game against Al-Hilal on January 29 and a clash with Al Nassr, Ronaldo’s team, on February 1. These two clubs currently lead the Saudi Pro League, with Ronaldo holding the position of the league’s leading goal-scorer. Inter Miami’s Sporting Director, Chris Henderson, expressed excitement about the upcoming tests, noting their significance as the team prepares for the new season. Henderson stated, “We’re excited for our group to get the chance to go up against teams with as much quality as Al-Hilal and Al Nassr.”

The announcement also highlighted the historic rivalry between Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo, who have faced each other 35 times in matches for club and country. Messi’s teams have won 16 times, Ronaldo’s teams 10 times, and the sides have drawn on nine occasions. Messi has 21 goals and 12 assists in these encounters, while Ronaldo has scored 20 goals and provided one assist.

Saudi Arabia has been actively promoting its presence in world soccer by signing renowned players, although Messi chose Major League Soccer over moving to the oil-rich kingdom after leaving Paris Saint-Germain. Messi has previously supported tourism in Saudi Arabia and participated in the Riyadh Season Cup earlier this year when PSG was the guest team.

Inter Miami has now announced four preseason matches, including one against the El Salvador national team on January 19 and a game against a team of top players in Hong Kong on February 4. The MLS schedule is expected to commence in late February.

Also Read: Newcastle United will play AC Milan in UCL