Lionel Messi, the Argentine maestro, had a transformative impact on his MLS side, helping them to turn their season after an 11-game losing streak. Meanwhile, an Italian veteran from the rival team demonstrated his high esteem for La Pulga. However, the 39-year-old defender was confident in their ability to beat David Beckham’s side in the upcoming MLS match this Sunday.
Inter Miami was set to take on the reigning champions of MLS as they look to return in winning ways after Messi’s emphatic performance in the Leagues Cup. Furthermore, the $1.08 million rated rival star remarked on the strategy to secure a victory against Miami in their upcoming league match at BMO stadium.
LAFC veteran icon confident about their win against Inter Miami
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Giorgio Chiellini, Los Angeles FC’s central back, was unfazed by the recent success of Inter Miami. The ex-Juventus icon held the belief that the Black and Golds had the potential to secure a victory against Herons through collective teamwork. The Italian legend felt LAFC had no grounds for concern about the Leagues Cup champion despite their strong comeback as a formidable rival in MLS.
Giorgio Chiellini remarked in LA FC’s press conference, “We have to respect Inter Miami but we don’t have to be scared of them. If we play one against one against Messi it is possible to win. But I think, however, LAFC could beat Inter Miami as a group.”
Giorgio Chiellini on facing Messi and Miami: "We have to respect them but we cannot be scared" pic.twitter.com/u4m6zFm731
— Eduard Cauich (@ecauich) September 1, 2023
Los Angeles FC was currently occupying the second position in the Western Conference standings of MLS after ending their four-game unbeaten streak snapped with the loss against Charlotte FC. On the other hand, Inter Miami was resolute in their aim to shorten the 10-point gap from the playoff spot, buoyed by the ecstatic stint from Lionel Messi. Meanwhile, Chiellini likened the world champion to Spielberg’s movie character with his impact on soccer throughout the decades.
Read More: Lionel Messi Breaking Major Rule Forces MLS to Ditch Policy Exclusively For Inter Miami Games
Giorgio Chiellini has high regard for Lionel Messi
Lionel Messi enjoyed a remarkable soccer career, amassing over 800 goals and providing 339 assists for both his club and country. The 7x Ballon d’Or winner had already garnered attention for Inter Miami after playing a pivotal role in their first-ever title, netting 10 goals in just 11 matches. In this instance, Chiellini drew a parallel between La Pulga’s influence as an otherworldly phenomenon, highlighting his performances that enriched soccer history.
The Italian legend referred to Steven Spielberg’s E.T. when he commented, “Lionel Messi] is like an Extra Terrestrial. Do you know what I mean? Yes an Extra-Terrestrial”.
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Giorgio Chiellini:
“[Lionel Messi] is like a Extra Terrestrial. Do you know what I mean?
Yes,a Extra Terrestrial.”
LAFC Press Conference #LAFC #MLS #Messi #InterMiamiCF #MLSSeasonPass #LionelMessi pic.twitter.com/0gdeBJOxYV
— Favian Renkel (@FavianRenkel) September 1, 2023
The Herons were still looking to get back into winning ways in MLS after a goalless draw against Nashville SC in the last game. Meanwhile, fans and the club were optimistic that La Pulga could maintain his scoring form against Los Angeles FC in their upcoming MLS match as the season unfolds.
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