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The Fan vs. The Team: The Controversial Exit of Inter Miami Supporters with Messi’s Injury

By Arthur Fernandes

NASHVILLE, TENNESSEE - AUGUST 19: Supporter holds Messi T shirt during the Leagues Cup final football match between Inter Miami against Nashville SC at Geodis Park in Nashville at GEODIS Park on August 19, 2023 in Nashville, Tennessee. (Photo by Pablo Morano/MB Media/Getty Images)
NASHVILLE, TENNESSEE - AUGUST 19: Supporter holds Messi T shirt during the Leagues Cup final football match between Inter Miami against Nashville SC at Geodis Park in Nashville at GEODIS Park on August 19, 2023 in Nashville, Tennessee. (Photo by Pablo Morano/MB Media/Getty Images) /
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In the world of soccer, it is not uncommon to see passionate fans ride the highs and lows of their beloved teams. However, during a recent showdown between Inter Miami and Toronto FC, an intriguing scene unfolded, highlighting a peculiar dilemma: devotion to the player or the club.

The match in question promised to be a spectacle for Inter Miami fans, as it marked the return of none other than Lionel Messi to the starting lineup. However, what should have been a day of celebration and anticipation quickly turned into disappointment when Messi had to leave the field due to a recurring injury.

What draws attention is the reaction of some Inter Miami fans in the face of this twist of fate. Without the Argentine icon in action, they were seen leaving the stadium even before halftime, as if the game had lost all its appeal. This scene raises interesting questions about the relationship between modern players and fans.

FORT LAUDERDALE, FLORIDA – SEPTEMBER 20: Lionel Messi #10 of Inter Miami controls the ball during the first half during a match between Toronto FC and Inter Miami CF at DRV PNK Stadium on September 20, 2023 in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. (Photo by Carmen Mandato/Getty Images)
FORT LAUDERDALE, FLORIDA – SEPTEMBER 20: Lionel Messi #10 of Inter Miami controls the ball during the first half during a match between Toronto FC and Inter Miami CF at DRV PNK Stadium on September 20, 2023 in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. (Photo by Carmen Mandato/Getty Images) /

It is undeniable that Messi is one of the biggest stars in the soccer world, and his arrival in MLS generated great expectations. However, it is important to remember that soccer is a team sport, and teams should be supported in all circumstances. The departure of some fans when Messi got injured suggests that, for them, the player is more important than the club itself. This sheds light on a trend we see elsewhere, where the cult of players’ personalities often surpasses support for the team.

Inter Miami, despite Messi’s early exit, managed a 4-0 victory, showing that a team’s success should not rely solely on a single star. The journey to the playoffs continues, and there are several other talented players on the team ready to shine. Furthermore, the sport is filled with uncertainties, and injuries are an integral part of the game. Therefore, true fans should remain loyal to their team, regardless of the circumstances.

As Inter Miami seeks more titles, it is important for their fans to remember that unwavering support for the team is what makes soccer so special. Celebrating iconic players is understandable, but love for the club should always come first. After all, in soccer, stars may shine brightly, but it’s the teams that achieve lasting success.

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