The Argentine has changed the fortunes of the Florida team, and the MLS in general, with the Barça legend greeted by packed stadiums both home and away.
Paul Reidypaulreidy67Calum RocheEnglish_ASUpdate: Sep 16th, 2023 02:28 EDT
Gary A. VasquezUSA TODAY Sports via Reuters Con
When Lionel Messi crossed the Atlantic for his Major League Soccer adventure, his chosen team Inter Miami were languishing at the very bottom of the league. Since then, the Argentine superstar has helped carry them to victory in the Leagues Cup, a place in the 2023 US Open Cup final, and an overall record of not having tasted defeat since.
It has truly been a remarkable turnaround, and the idea of reaching the playoffs, something unthinkable just weeks ago, is now at least a possibility. Optimism for Herons fans continues to grow, with dreams of more silverware and a place in MLS postseason.
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— Major League Soccer (@MLS) September 4, 2023
Messi-mania in full effect
Messi is also being heralded by the South Florida club’s marketing and finance department as the Argentine has created a huge wave of interest both on and off the field with many who suggested that the striker would be in ‘semi-retirement Miami mood’ now eating humble pie. The World Cup winner continues to generate magic on the pitch, sell unprecedented volumes of pink and black merchandise and pack out stadiums with many anxious to see the Rosario born at close quarters.
But clearly the man in question cannot play in every game, so some fans will be disappointed when they turn up.
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Messimania | Young fans wear Messi jerseys ahead of Inter Miami CF vs Los Angeles FC.FREDERIC J. BROWNAFP
Messi, Miami and the playoffs
Inter Miami are in a zone of games where they all appear like ‘finals’ as they look to climb the Eastern Conference table and secure at least a ninth place finish that would ensure a wild card place and a tilt at postseason football.
Messi missed the club’s game before the FIFA break, as Miami secured a somewhat painful win over Sporting Kansas City. That feat will surely have to be matched again on the road against Atlanta, with manager Tata Martino confirming on Friday that his star would not travel with his teammates.
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Argentina’s Lionel Messi celebratesMOLLY DARLINGTONDiarioAS