Lionel Messi’s MLS Debut vs New York Red Bulls Compared With Zlatan Ibrahimovic’s LA Galaxy Debut

Lionel Messi sent shockwaves across the world when he announced his decision to join Inter Miami. Ever since, the seven-time Ballon d’Or winner has shown his pedigree in every match for Inter Miami with La Pulga even helping the Herons lift their maiden Leagues Cup trophy. As fun as Leo’s journey in America has been so far, people have been very curious to see how he performs for the David Beckham-owned side in the MLS. Luckily for us, he delivered, and how.

Despite entering as substitute in the 60th minute, Leo controlled the game brilliantly with his dribbling and this helped him set up his own goal at the end. While it’s not as flashy as Zlatan’s debut was, this debut embodies Messi in his own way. Hence this has led to netizens comparing both the debuts.

Lionel Messi makes MLS debut with a goal

Entering the field in the 60th minute as a response to the New York Red Bulls’ counter-press, Leo’s arrival brought about a complete transformation in the Herons’ ball possession approach. He skillfully showcased his tight ball control, and in the end, this effort bore fruit in the 90th minute when he orchestrated his own goal through his flawless dribbling within the penalty area.

Dive Deeper: Now ‘100%’ Ditched by Real Madrid, Kylian Mbappe’s Mom Issued Stern Warning to $3,100,000,000 Giants For Not Selecting Him After Trials

Many consider Zlatan’s MLS Debut as the best ever in the history of the league

Back in 2018, Zlatan Ibrahimovic made a shock move to LA Galaxy after a commendable campaign with Manchester United. As expected, expectations were sky high from the Swede, and luckily for LA fans; Zlatan delivered and how. Making his debut in the spiciest derby of the league; LA Galaxy was in dire need of his performance, trailing by three goals until the 73rd minute. Luckily, he didn’t disappoint as it took him barely six minutes after stepping onto the pitch to score his iconic volley from 40 yards out.

His decisive action ignited a surge in his team, resulting in two swift goals that restored parity. Ultimately, the Swede clinched the winning goal, solidifying what numerous consider to be the most exceptional MLS debut in history. Post-match, Ibrahimovic broke down his iconic goal by simply attributing it to what “Zlatan” does. “I heard the fans chanting, ‘We want Zlatan,’ “ Ibrahimovic said. “I gave them Zlatan,” shared the Swede candidly. 

WATCH THIS STORY | NFL Star’s Wife Celebrates Soccer Greatest Lionel Messi’s Miami Transfer With Unbridled Joy

Who do you think had a better debut? Let us know your thoughts in the comments section below!