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MLS, Fussball Herren, USA Leagues Cup-Cruz Azul at Inter Miami CF Jul 21, 2023 Fort Lauderdale, FL, USA Inter Miami CF forward Lionel Messi 10 looks on against Cruz Azul during the second half at DRV PNK Stadium. Fort Lauderdale DRV PNK Stadium FL USA, EDITORIAL USE ONLY PUBLICATIONxINxGERxSUIxAUTxONLY Copyright: xSamxNavarrox 20230721_jcd_na2_0145
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MLS, Fussball Herren, USA Leagues Cup-Cruz Azul at Inter Miami CF Jul 21, 2023 Fort Lauderdale, FL, USA Inter Miami CF forward Lionel Messi 10 looks on against Cruz Azul during the second half at DRV PNK Stadium. Fort Lauderdale DRV PNK Stadium FL USA, EDITORIAL USE ONLY PUBLICATIONxINxGERxSUIxAUTxONLY Copyright: xSamxNavarrox 20230721_jcd_na2_0145
Lionel Messi, the new number 10 of Inter Miami, had put MLS in the global spotlight when he decided to start a new journey in the United States. Messi’s world-class impact was immediately evident for Miami after helping the team win their first-ever trophy and triumph in consecutive games after his arrival. Despite La Pulga’s success in MLS, a popular journalist criticized his decision to join a league that is much easier than the ones he played in previously.
The TV Azteca Deportes narrator believed that soccer players, at a certain point in their careers, only focused on adding trophies to their closet, regardless of the level of competition or their own performance. Surprisingly, the journalist cited the example of the world champion’s $54,00,000 deal with the MLS side and considered his time in the States as playing with retirees after his illustrious career in Europe.
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What did the journalist remark about Lionel Messi?
Christian Martinoli, a TV narrator, considered Lionel Messi’s venture into MLS a non-stake move since it does not emulate the level of competition he excelled throughout the decade. The TV Azteca commentator said, “Messi had to go down five steps to be able to shine. MLS is a fifth-rate league where defenders don’t exist, they haven’t defended for years and only know how to attack”.
According to Martinoli, Messi’s triumph in the Leagues Cup did not reflect the quality of his play because of the below-average opponents and their lackluster defensive abilities. He believed that winning the title was more of a way to immortalize 7x Ballon d’Or’s illustrious career in the history books. Amidst the criticism, Messi prepared for his MLS debut after impressing in other cup ties for the Herons.
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La Pulga is all geared up for his debut in the MLS
Lionel Messi had a stellar start to his season with Inter Miami, scoring 10 goals in 8 games and helping the team break their 11-game losing streak. The 36-year-old icon helped Inter Miami win their first-ever trophy, the Leagues Cup, and also led the team to the U.S. Open Cup with two sensational assists.
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MLS, Fussball Herren, USA Leagues Cup Semifinal-Inter Miami CF at Philadelphia Union Aug 15, 2023 Chester, PA, USA Inter Miami CF forward Lionel Messi 10 celebrates after scoring a goal against the Philadelphia Union during the first half at Subaru Park. Chester Subaru Park PA USA, EDITORIAL USE ONLY PUBLICATIONxINxGERxSUIxAUTxONLY Copyright: xEricxHartlinex 20230815_jcd_se7_0163
As the season progresses, the most decorated player in soccer inches closer to the Eastern Conference playoff race with his MLS debut against the New York Red Bulls this Saturday. Meanwhile, Inter Miami was hoping to turn their season around with the former Barcelona star after a poor stint in the league. However, fans had their doubt about Messi’s debut due to fatigue after playing every minute in the past six matches, but they still want the victory to continue as the season goes along.
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Do you agree with the take of Christian Martinoli about Lionel Messi in his interview? Comment below and let us know.
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