Lionel Messi’s arrival at Inter Miami in 2023 was a historic moment for the club and for Major League Soccer (MLS). The Argentine superstar, widely considered to be one of the greatest footballers of all time, signed a three-year deal with the club as a designated player. Messi’s impact on Inter Miami has been immediate and profound.
So, relax and enjoy yourself as Sportonpoint take you to Messi’s outstanding journey in Inter Miami so far, in this blog post we are going to discuss Messi’s impacts for Inter Miami, how the club was struggling before the arrival of Messi, how he changed the club and made it famous all over the U S A and the whole worlds as well.
Lionel Messi Inter Miami: Impacts and Transformation
The 2023 Major League Soccer season will forever stand out in the league’s history. Unlike any other in its 28-year existence, it was marked by unparalleled excitement when Lionel Messi joined Inter Miami CF. This move sparked global attention unlike anything seen before.
Messi’s debut in the joint MLS-Liga MX Leagues Cup against Cruz Azul on July 21 was sensational. Emerging from the bench in the 54th minute, he sealed a stoppage-time victory with an incredible free kick, kickstarting his American journey in grand style.
Throughout the tournament, Messi showcased his brilliance, netting 10 goals and contributing an assist across seven games, ultimately leading Miami to claim their first-ever trophy in the club’s four-year history. However, in MLS regular-season matches, his impact was more subdued, managing only one goal and two assists in six appearances. Despite his human-like performance in domestic games, Inter Miami’s 2023 season ended prematurely. Their playoff hopes were dashed with two games left in the regular season, leaving Messi and his teammates to observe the MLS Cup playoffs from the sidelines, eagerly anticipating the prospects of the 2024 campaign.
Before kicking of this journey let’s take a look at Inter Miam history before Lionel Messi
Inter Miami Struggles Before Messi’s Arrival
“Way before Messi and his cool ex-Barcelona buddies like Sergio Busquets and Jordi Alba came to Miami, the soccer scene here was awful. Like, seriously bad. They played 22 games and only got 18 points – the worst in the league! Scoring goals? They were terrible at that too. Out of all the teams, only Colorado Rapids and Toronto FC had scored fewer goals than them. And their expected goals (xG) per game? A lousy 0.97, the worst among all teams.
Honestly, back then, thinking Miami could do anything in the Leagues Cup without Messi would have been a joke. But then, bam! Messi showed up, and suddenly everything changed.”
After Messi Arrival
From the day Messi stepped onto the field for Miami against Cruz Azul on July 21 until his last game against Sporting Kansas City on Sept. 9, Miami went on a roll, unbeaten. Can you believe it? In those 12 games – seven in the Leagues Cup, four in the league, and one in the U.S. Open Cup – they won eight and drew four. They were on fire, scoring 33 goals while their opponents managed only 14! And get this, they were racking up an average of 1.59 expected goals (xG) per game.
The big highlight? Miami snagged the first-ever title of the expanded Leagues Cup tournament.
Now, in soccer, it’s hard to measure a single player’s impact, right? But Messi? His effect was undeniable. He played 11 matches in that 12-game stretch, scoring a whopping 11 goals and assisting five. I mean, he scored in his first seven games, and even bagged two goals in each of the first three he started.
Here’s the kicker: Messi was clocking in a goal or assist every 68 minutes. Compare that to MLS Golden Boot winner Denis Bouanga from LAFC, who managed it every 75 minutes, or the likely MLS MVP, Luciano Acosta from FC Cincinnati, who did it every 103 minutes.
Miami’s season? It’s like a three-act play: Before Messi, With Messi, After Messi’s Injury.
During the ‘With Messi’ part, Miami was ruling Concacaf. Winning the Leagues Cup? They looked unbeatable, like they’d storm into the playoffs. But, before Messi, Miami was in such a deep hole that they needed a miracle to make the playoffs.
And when Messi got injured? Oof, it went downhill. He only played three times in the final two months, and Miami couldn’t win without him. They ended up back where they started, playing like they did at the beginning of the season.
The final verdict? Only two MLS teams had fewer points than Miami. Tough break.”
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How Messi transformed Miami
“Alright, let me tell you about the Messi effect on Miami…
Miami’s not just a city – it’s a second home for Latinos, a blend of American and Latin American vibes. Spanish and Spanglish are everywhere, from Little Havana’s Cubans to North Beach’s Argentinians. It’s a place that breathes Latino culture in its neighborhoods.
Now, for Messi, his fam, and the big move to MLS – it’s all about feeling at home. After leaving Argentina at 13 and a rough patch in Paris, Messi wanted that comfort again. And guess what? South Florida’s given it to him.
In Messi’s own words to ESPN, Miami’s the spot where he’s happy. It’s not just about playing ball; it’s the everyday life with fam, the vibe, and how they roll. This place brings Messi joy, plain and simple.
Sure, some might point fingers at the cash flow and brand growth, but for Messi, it’s more than that. He wanted to feel at home, not just chase bucks. If money ruled, he’d be in Saudi Arabia kicking a ball right now.
Messi’s move wasn’t just about goals on the field. It was a cultural thing, a statement. His arrival in the American soccer scene was like the ultimate homecoming for the biggest Latin American star out there.
You walk around Miami, and bam! Messi’s everywhere. Jerseys, murals, billboards – he’s stealing the spotlight, even with the Dolphins and Heat in the mix.
It’s like Bad Bunny said in his song “Vuelve Candy B” – ever since Messi set foot in the USA, everyone knows who the GOAT is. Sorry, Tom Brady, Messi’s taken over the town.”
“Alright, get this: Messi flipped the whole American sports scene in less than four months, and here’s the kicker – without speaking a word of English! Now, tell me, could it get any more ‘Miami’ than that?”
Thoughts and Statements of The League and USA Shared Regarding Messi
When Messi made his debut with Inter Miami in the MLS, it was a big deal. Fans were excited as one of the greatest athletes joined the United States team. The reactions poured in from famous figures like LeBron James, who, being familiar with greatness, hailed Messi’s presence at the game. NBA star Patrick Mahomes also expressed admiration, emphasizing the moment’s significance, despite playing a different sport.
David Beckham, part-owner of Inter Miami, was thrilled after Messi’s debut, calling it a dream come true for everyone witnessing Messi’s performance. The impact was palpable as Inter Miami’s performance shifted drastically with Messi on board. His teammate, Robert Taylor, acknowledged Messi’s role in their team’s success, acknowledging him as the best player in the world.
Even celebrities like rapper Rick Ross were drawn to Messi’s influence, with Ross praising Messi’s impact on Miami’s energy and urging others to experience the game. The team’s goalkeeper, Drake Callender, acknowledged Messi’s creative prowess, attributing the team’s improved performance to Messi’s influence.
Messi’s magic extended beyond the pitch, leading Inter Miami to victories in the Leagues Cup and the U.S. Open Cup. Benjamin Cremaschi, a young star on the team, expressed excitement about playing alongside Messi and credited Messi for enhancing their performance.
The aura around Messi boosted Miami’s morale and performance, evidenced by their victories over top MLS teams. Even seasoned players like Giorgio Chiellini acknowledged the drastic change in Miami’s prowess due to Messi’s presence.
Despite their loss in the final, Inter Miami’s impact was acknowledged by Cincinnati’s manager, Pat Noonan, highlighting Messi’s ability to make a difference in crucial moments. Celebrities like Owen Wilson and Will Ferrell were also captivated by Messi’s presence, comparing it to witnessing Michael Jordan and emphasizing the unique experience.
Ultimately, Messi’s arrival reshaped Inter Miami, transforming them into a competitive force in the league, leaving a lasting impression on teammates, opponents, and celebrities alike.
Strategies for Miami to secure more trophies in 2024
Miami went all out during the midseason, bringing in a bunch of big names like Messi, Alba, and Busquets. But it wasn’t just the stars; they also roped in some promising young talents from South America, including Farías, Avilés, and Gómez.
Despite splurging, Miami missed the playoffs, but they’re gearing up for a stronger start next season compared to how they kicked off in 2023.
For the first time in Chris Henderson’s tenure as sporting director, Miami’s free from the sanctions that stemmed from roster rule violations in 2020. With that baggage lifted, and the financial support from owners Jorge and Jose Mas, Miami’s ready to play on a level field, which sets the stage for a solid 2024 roster.
While Farías, Avilés, and Gómez are already onboard, there’s chatter about the possible addition of veteran Uruguayan forward Luis Suárez, who might join after his contract ends with Gremio in December.
However, there are concerns about Miami’s strategy of bringing in older players like Suárez, considering the injury struggles of Messi and Alba towards the end of the season. Manager Gerardo “Tata” Martino is weighing the pros and cons before making a final decision.
Additionally, it’s highly likely that Josef Martínez will leave, while Luka Modric’s potential move to Miami might not materialize due to roster constraints.
With veterans like Messi and Busquets showing signs of age, Miami needs midfielders to cover more ground. They’ve got options with players like Gregore, Jean Mota, Benjamin Cremaschi, Dixon Arroyo, and David Ruiz, but they might need to reevaluate the squad’s depth.
Improving the defensive line is crucial too, especially after conceding 54 goals last season. Miami might need more speed at the back if they plan to maintain a high defensive line.
Despite most of their recruitment for 2024 being sorted, the latter half of Miami’s 2023 season demonstrated their potential. With a full preseason and better management of key players, they’re gearing up to make significant strides in the upcoming year.
Messi Named Inter Miami MVP For The 2023 Season
Inter Miami CF just announced that Lionel Messi has been named the team’s Most Valuable Player for the 2023 season! Messi, who joined the team in the summer, made a huge impact right away. He played a crucial role in securing the 2023 Leagues Cup title, a historic win for the team. Not only that, but he also helped the team reach the 2023 Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup final, which was the first-ever event held at DRV PNK Stadium.
His exceptional performances didn’t go unnoticed. Messi clinched individual awards, including the Leagues Cup Best Player and Top Scorer, thanks to his remarkable tally of 10 goals and four assists in just seven games during the competition.
Throughout his first half-season, Messi made 14 appearances in various competitions, showcasing his talent with 11 goals and eight assists. This stellar performance has rightfully earned him the title of Inter Miami CF’s MVP for 2023, following the footsteps of Lewis Morgan, Gregore, and Gonzalo Higuaín in the preceding years.
Conclusion
Lionel Messi’s impact on Inter Miami has been immense. He has transformed the club on and off the field, and he has helped to raise the profile of MLS around the world. Messi is still under contract with Inter Miami for two more seasons, and it is unclear what the future holds for him after that. However, there is no doubt that he will continue to be a major force in MLS for many years to come.
FAQs
How will Messi affect the economy in Miami?
Miami’s tourism scene might see a whopping $400 million surge! People aren’t just sitting around waiting for Messi to show up in their city. Looking at how other places have benefited from hosting global sports icons, Miami could witness a substantial 10% boost in tourism thanks to Messi’s presence.
Messi career goals in total for club and country?
Barcelona: 778 games, 672 goals
PSG: 75 games, 32 goals
Inter Miami: 14 games, 11 goals
Argentina: 178 games, 106 goals
Total: 1044 games played, 821 goals scored.
Who is the best player in Inter Miami?
Inter Miami CF made it official: Lionel Messi, the team’s captain, has clinched the title of the team’s Most Valuable Player for the 2023 season!
What drives Miami’s economy?
Miami’s economy thrives on tourism, serving as a bustling hub renowned for its stunning beaches, lively nightlife, and rich cultural tapestry. Drawing visitors from across the globe, Miami-Dade County hosts over 16 million tourists every year, pumping a staggering $25 billion into the local revenue stream.
What does Messi do for the poor?
Besides his UNICEF ambassadorship since 2010, Messi went further by establishing his very own non-profit entity, the Leo Messi Foundation. His philanthropic endeavors, both through his foundation and personal initiatives, have touched the lives of thousands globally, making a tangible difference in the world.
How much will Inter Miami pay Messi?
In the latest revelation by the MLS Players Association, Lionel Messi’s yearly earnings from his Inter Miami MLS contract hit slightly above $20.4 million. This figure places Messi’s compensation higher than the entire payroll of all but three other MLS teams. Remarkably, his earnings double the combined income of all players in Orlando City.
