Lionel Messi’s arrival at Inter Miami in 2023 [MLS]

Lionel Messi’s arrival at Inter Miami in 2023 marked one of the most significant moments in MLS history. His decision to join the Florida-based club not only boosted the team’s profile globally but also reshaped the landscape of soccer in the United States. Here's an in-depth look at Messi's journey with Inter Miami, his impact, and his performances in the 2024 season.

Arrival and Initial Impact

Messi joined Inter Miami in July 2023, immediately electrifying the club and the MLS. His arrival came after a storied career at FC Barcelona and a two-year stint at Paris Saint-Germain (PSG). Messi’s move to Miami was seen as a key moment in the development of soccer in the U.S., reminiscent of the effect David Beckham had when he joined LA Galaxy in 2007. Messi brought with him an unparalleled global fan base and injected renewed interest in Major League Soccer.

From his first match, Messi made an indelible mark. His debut in the Leagues Cup against Cruz Azul was capped by a stunning free-kick goal in stoppage time, securing a 2-1 victory. This goal set the tone for Messi’s immediate influence. He led Inter Miami to their first-ever Leagues Cup title and won the tournament’s Golden Boot, scoring 10 goals across the competition.

2024 Season: Dominance in MLS

Messi’s impact continued into the 2024 MLS season, where his performances were nothing short of extraordinary. Despite his advancing age, the Argentine maestro adapted quickly to the rigors of the MLS, maintaining his world-class form. By October 2024, Messi had scored 17 goals in 17 matches, maintaining a goals-per-game ratio of 1.08, one of the best in the league.

Key Matches and Performances

One of Messi’s standout performances in the 2024 season came during Inter Miami’s 6-2 victory over New York Red Bulls, where he scored a goal and provided five assists, showcasing his unparalleled vision and creativity. In a thrilling 3-1 win against Philadelphia Union, Messi scored two crucial goals and added an assist, securing the win for Miami.

Messi's versatility in attack, whether playing as a forward or dropping deep to dictate play, has made him an indispensable part of Tata Martino’s squad. His ability to score, assist, and control the tempo of the game has led Inter Miami to climb the MLS standings and contend for the Supporters’ Shield.

Messi’s Tactical Influence

In terms of tactical influence, Messi’s presence has completely transformed how Inter Miami plays. Under Martino, the team has adopted a possession-based style of play, allowing Messi to thrive in a role similar to his Barcelona days. He frequently drifts into pockets of space, linking up play, and creating goal-scoring opportunities for teammates like Josef Martínez and Sergio Busquets, who also joined the Miami project alongside Messi.

His chemistry with former Barcelona teammate Jordi Alba and the burgeoning partnership with striker Luis Suárez have added layers to Miami’s attacking arsenal. The trio's understanding has made Miami one of the most dangerous teams offensively in the league, despite the team’s initial struggles.

Adapting to MLS and Overcoming Challenges

While Messi’s technical ability has never been in question, adapting to the MLS’s physicality and travel demands posed new challenges. The MLS is known for its grueling travel schedule and diverse playing conditions, from high-altitude games to matches on artificial turf. Messi has navigated these challenges admirably, although he has dealt with minor injuries throughout the season.

Messi’s leadership on and off the pitch has been evident as well. He has embraced his role as a mentor to younger players, helping raise the level of those around him, while also bringing a winning mentality to a club that had previously struggled to establish itself in MLS.

Beyond the Field: Messi’s Cultural Impact

Messi’s arrival in Miami has had a transformative effect on soccer culture in the United States. His presence has drawn larger crowds, not just in Miami but across the country, as fans flock to see the legendary player in action. Ticket sales for away games involving Inter Miami surged, and TV ratings for MLS broadcasts reached new heights.

Additionally, Messi’s arrival has attracted other star players to MLS, including Luis Suárez, sparking further speculation that more global stars could follow in Messi’s footsteps and see MLS as a viable destination in the twilight of their careers.

The Road Ahead

As the 2024 season nears its conclusion, Messi’s focus is now on leading Inter Miami to the MLS playoffs and potentially winning the MLS Cup. With 17 goals and 10 assists in the league so far, Messi has proven to be a game-changer for Miami, putting them in a strong position for a deep playoff run.

The long-term impact of Messi’s move to MLS will be felt for years to come. His influence has already transcended the sport in the U.S., and as his playing career continues, he is expected to leave an indelible mark on the growth of soccer in North America.

In summary, Lionel Messi’s time at Inter Miami has been nothing short of spectacular. From winning trophies in his debut season to continuing his world-class performances in 2024, Messi has reinvigorated MLS and solidified his status as one of the greatest players to ever grace the game. Whether Inter Miami wins more silverware or not, Messi's legacy in MLS is already secure.