Messi Already Shaping Inter Miami’s Future Both On and Off the Pitch

Lionel Messi’s influence at Inter Miami is unmistakable, with many observers noting that he already acts like a club owner. The Argentine superstar’s move to Major League Soccer in 2023 has not only transformed the South Florida club’s fortunes but has also brought a new dimension to American soccer. Former MLS and Premier League defender Bacary Sagna recently shared his thoughts, suggesting that Messi has found his ideal home in Miami and could remain in the United States for the long term.

Messi’s Impact at Inter Miami: Building a Legacy

Lionel Messi’s transition from Paris Saint-Germain to Inter Miami marked the beginning of a new era for both the player and the club. Within weeks of arriving in Miami, Messi secured Inter Miami’s first-ever Leagues Cup title, immediately endearing himself to the club’s passionate supporters. His on-field brilliance has continued, leading to back-to-back MVP honors and helping the team lift its maiden MLS Cup.

Off the pitch, Messi’s impact is equally profound. He and his wife Antonela have settled comfortably in Miami, a city that offers the privacy and family-friendly environment they longed for after a challenging spell in France. The Spanish-speaking community and laid-back lifestyle have allowed the Messi family to thrive. By all accounts, Lionel Messi seems to have woven himself into the very fabric of the club.

Messi’s Leadership: More Than Just a Player

What sets Messi apart at Inter Miami is not just his performances but his growing influence behind the scenes. Reports suggest that Messi has a significant say in recruitment decisions and overall club strategy, drawing parallels with David Beckham’s journey from player to owner. Sagna, who once played for Montreal Impact, remarked that Messi’s presence at Inter Miami is reminiscent of ownership. “He’s already like an owner of the club; his family is very present. It’s like being at home. He could play for a few more years,” Sagna told GOAL.

His leadership is palpable on and off the pitch. Messi’s ability to draw world-class talent to Miami is evident, with former Barcelona teammates Sergio Busquets, Jordi Alba, and Luis Suarez joining him at the club. The possibility of other global icons like Neymar or Robert Lewandowski making their way to MLS further underscores Messi’s magnetic pull and the growing stature of the league.

The American Dream: Why Miami Fits Messi

Miami presents Messi with the unique blend of comfort, privacy, and opportunity. With a vibrant Hispanic community and a football-friendly environment, Messi has found a place where he can be both a superstar and a regular person. The less restrictive lifestyle in the United States has allowed him to enjoy his surroundings while remaining laser-focused on football.

Business opportunities also abound. Bacary Sagna highlighted that, in the U.S., Messi is perfectly positioned to build his brand post-retirement, especially with David Beckham as both a partner and mentor. The presence of global sponsors like adidas only adds to the allure, creating a perfect storm for Messi’s continued success both during and after his playing career.

Could Messi Become the Next Beckham?

Speculation about Messi’s potential to transition into club ownership, similar to Beckham, has intensified. Sagna believes that the synergy between Messi and the city of Miami makes such a move likely. “I think he will stay in Miami. It suits him. There are a lot of Spanish speakers, and his English is not great! It’s like being in a safe environment. Being in the US, business-wise, is perfect for him because he is a brand,” Sagna observed.

As Messi continues to lead on the field, his involvement in club affairs may only deepen. While he cannot yet take on ownership responsibilities due to his playing commitments, his influence on recruitment and club culture is already apparent. Messi’s presence is attracting other international stars to Miami, enhancing the club’s profile and competitiveness.

MLS on the Rise: Big Names Follow Messi’s Path

With Messi at the helm, Inter Miami has become a beacon for other high-profile players. Former Barcelona colleagues and World Cup-winning teammates have followed his path, and rumors persist about additional stars joining the MLS. Sagna predicts that more big names will be drawn to the league, especially as it offers a vibrant and enjoyable way to conclude a stellar career.

“America puts on a show every game, fireworks and all. They don’t have as many restrictions on the private side. You can enjoy walking around the cities. The approach is totally different. You learn to love football differently by playing here,” Sagna added.

Messi’s Future at Inter Miami: Long-Term Commitment

Messi has already extended his contract with Inter Miami through 2028, signaling his intention to stay for several more years. With a mid-season break expected as he joins Argentina’s World Cup title defense, fans across the United States can look forward to seeing Messi’s magic for some time to come.

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Opinion: Messi’s Miami Move Redefines Soccer Stardom

In my view, Lionel Messi’s journey with Inter Miami is setting a new standard for global football stars winding down their careers. He has not only raised the bar for MLS but has also shown how stars can seamlessly blend sporting excellence with lifestyle and business opportunities. If his influence keeps growing, Messi could well become the next iconic owner in world football, cementing his legacy far beyond the pitch.