Messi’s American Dream: A New Chapter in Miami

omidbasir- In 2023, Lionel Messi embarked on a new journey in pursuit of the American dream, concluding his contract with Paris Saint-Germain. The iconic Barcelona player accepted an invitation from legendary Manchester United figure, David Beckham, and relocated to South Florida.

Messi made an immediate impact, celebrating League Cup success shortly after his arrival. The South American soccer legend has since redefined records, earning back-to-back MVP awards and clinching a historic MLS Cup victory.

Amidst these achievements, Messi has maintained a cheerful demeanor, as he and his wife, Antonela, found a suitable environment for their young family after facing challenges settling in France during their two seasons with PSG.

In the United States, Messi enjoys a more ‘normal’ lifestyle, benefiting from increased privacy and freedom, which is believed to enhance his competitive spirit. He also plays a significant role in the recruitment strategies for Inter Miami, contributing to the club’s operations.

Former Premier League player Bacary Sagna, who spent time in MLS with Montreal Impact, shared his thoughts on Messi’s influence in Miami with Parimatch Online Casino: “He’s a phenomenon. His natural talent, combined with his passion for the game, enables him to continue making a remarkable impact at this stage of his career. Players like him are true icons.”

Sagna emphasized that Messi’s presence is not only about his on-field performance but also about inspiring a new generation of fans. He noted, “The fans in the U.S. stand to benefit immensely from hosting the World Cup, as individuals like Messi can transform perceptions and elevate the game.”

Sagna added, “Messi appears to be thriving in Miami. The city’s Spanish-speaking community offers him a sense of belonging, and he seems to integrate seamlessly, almost akin to a club owner. His family is actively involved, creating a home-like atmosphere. I believe he can continue playing for several more years.”

When questioned about Messi potentially following in Beckham’s footsteps into club ownership post-retirement, Sagna remarked, “I think staying in Miami suits him perfectly, given the prominence of Spanish speakers. The U.S. offers an ideal environment for him to build his brand and secure a future for his family. He seems to genuinely enjoy playing for the club, especially with David Beckham by his side and the backing of Adidas, which adds another dimension to their collaboration.”

Several former Barcelona teammates, including Sergio Busquets, Jordi Alba, and Luis Suarez, have also joined Messi in Miami, alongside World Cup-winning Argentine teammate Rodrigo De Paul. Meanwhile, stars like Thomas Muller and Son Heung-min are making their mark in MLS.

Sagna anticipates that more high-profile players may follow, citing the league’s growing appeal, particularly for those nearing the end of their careers. He commented, “The MLS offers a unique opportunity to enjoy football while showcasing talent, especially for South American players. Matches in America are vibrant, often featuring fireworks and a celebratory atmosphere. Players can enjoy greater freedom in public spaces, which was not an option for Messi due to his celebrity status in Europe.”

He concluded, “While I hesitate to label it as a mini-retirement, playing in the MLS allows players to rediscover their love for the game in a different context.”

To the delight of American fans, Messi has extended his contract through 2028, ensuring he will be in the league for several more years. This season, he is also expected to take a mid-season break to participate in Argentina’s World Cup title defense.