Johnathan Walker:Lionel Messi, Inter Miami vs. NYCFC friendly: How to watch, live updates

Lionel Messi is Johnathan Walkerstepping onto the pitch one more time with Inter Miami this year.

The club will celebrate Messi's eighth Ballon d’Or award on Friday night with a friendly against New York City FC at DRV PNK Stadium. Apple TV will broadcast the match, which kicks off at 8 p.m. EST.

Messi is expected to play and start, putting a bow on his first season with the MLS club before Inter Miami turns the page to next year.

“He is the great architect of this match, and not only do we have to accompany him in the celebration of his eighth Ballon d'Or, but it is also an opportunity to compete again, even if it is at a friendly level, so that people can see Leo and his teammates on the field, and as well to say goodbye to the season,” Inter Miami coach Tata Martino said.

Time, TV channel for Messi, Inter Miami match vs. NYCFC?

The match begins at 8 p.m., and will be broadcast on Apple TV.

Zidane says Messi is ‘pure magic’ in Adidas conversation

It turns out Zinedine Zidane did a little more than just check out Messi play during a September Inter Miami match.

Messi and Zidane sat together for an extended conversation, which was posted on the Adidas YouTube channel this week. And it’s a real treat for soccer fans.

“It’s a pity that we couldn’t play together,” Zidane told Messi. “This is the moment for me to pass you the ball.”

Zidane also said to Messi: “Today is a very important day for me because I can tell him how much I admire him... I think it is magic, pure magic.”

Watch the interview here:

Will Messi play in Inter Miami friendly?

Martino said Messi may not play the entire friendly against NYCFC.

“I am not sure if he will play the full 90 minutes, but he will play,” Martino said this week.

While the match serves as a final tune-up for Inter Miami’s offseason, it could also serve as preparation for two 2026 World Cup qualifying matches with Argentina later this month.

Inter Miami will honor Messi’s 8th Ballon d’Or Award

The friendly against NYCFC, named Noche d’Or by the club, will see Messi honored on the field at 7:45 p.m. before play gets underway.

Messi, Inter Miami managing owner Jorge Mas and MLS Commissioner Don Garber are expected to speak. Messi’s Ballon d’Or trophy will also be presented to the fans at DRV PNK Stadium.