Messi in the USA: A Gift That Goes Beyond the Soccer Field

FORT LAUDERDALE, FLORIDA - NOVEMBER 10: Inter Miami's #10 Lionel Messi holds his record eighth Ballon d'Or trophy prior to a Major League Soccer (MLS) friendly football match between Inter Miami CF and New York City FC at DRV PNK Stadium on November 10, 2023 in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. (Photo by Rich Storry/Getty Images)
FORT LAUDERDALE, FLORIDA - NOVEMBER 10: Inter Miami's #10 Lionel Messi holds his record eighth Ballon d'Or trophy prior to a Major League Soccer (MLS) friendly football match between Inter Miami CF and New York City FC at DRV PNK Stadium on November 10, 2023 in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. (Photo by Rich Storry/Getty Images) /
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The impact of Lionel Messi on Inter Miami goes beyond the four lines and extends as a gift to the United States and Major League Soccer (MLS), as highlighted by David Beckham, one of the club’s owners. The signing of the Argentine ace not only raises the team’s technical level but also proves to be a transformative influence for future generations of American soccer players.

Beckham, in an interview with the “AFP” agency, expressed his pride in having Messi at Inter Miami, emphasizing that the presence of the number 10 is more than an achievement for the club; it is a benefit for all American soccer. The statement that Messi is “an inspiration to an entire generation of players” should not be underestimated. The Argentine star not only adds quality to the spectacle on the field but also serves as a role model for aspiring players in the United States, a nation that continues to build its identity on the global soccer stage.

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FORT LAUDERDALE, FLORIDA – NOVEMBER 10: Lionel Messi #10 of Inter Miami CF dribbles the ball against the New York City FC during the second half at DRV PNK Stadium on November 10, 2023 in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. (Photo by Rich Storry/Getty Images)
FORT LAUDERDALE, FLORIDA – NOVEMBER 10: Lionel Messi #10 of Inter Miami CF dribbles the ball against the New York City FC during the second half at DRV PNK Stadium on November 10, 2023 in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. (Photo by Rich Storry/Getty Images) /

Messi’s decision to join Inter Miami, after a stint with Paris Saint-Germain, not only stirred the fans but also brought with it a significant title – the League’s Cup. Even with the team out of the MLS playoffs, Messi demonstrated his unique ability with 11 goals and five assists in 14 games, putting him as a finalist for the MLS Rookie of the Year award in 2023.

Beckham’s view of Messi as a gift to the USA goes beyond a passion for the sport. The former player recognizes the crucial role Messi plays in creating a lasting impact on the American sports scene. His magnetism is not limited to fans but extends to young players who now have a global icon to admire and be inspired by.

Messi’s arrival in the United States transcends the expectations of a simple reinforcement for a soccer club. It is an injection of enthusiasm and motivation for a nation that is falling more and more in love with the sport. Messi’s presence in the USA is more than a sports event; it is an opportunity to shape the future of American soccer and create a new generation of soccer enthusiasts.