“Not on [Lionel] Messi’s Level” – USMNT Legend Offers Bold Take on GOAT Debate, While Hailing His ‘Blockbuster’ Impact on MLS

The Lionel Messi fever has been rampant all over the United States since his move to Inter Miami. Mention the MLS and discussions about the Argentinian superstar inevitably ensue. While some argue that the headlines have become overly Messi-centric, USMNT icon Alexi Lalas claims that everyone would be ‘stupid not to’ acknowledge La Pulga’s superiority, ending his long-going GOAT debate with Cristiano Ronaldo.

In the latest episode of the State of the Union podcast, host David Mosse brought a complaint made by their colleague, who is a LA Galaxy fan, in front of Lalas that their last podcast was too focused on the Miami No. 10 and that ‘Messi is sucking all the oxygen out of the room.’ However, the former American soccer player had a brilliant response. 

“Messi is blockbuster. Messi is important. I’m sorry that your team or your player that you liked is not on Messi’s level. Let’s be honest, nobody is and that is why we continue to talk about it,” said Lalas. The commentator insisted that all the hype surrounding the World Cup winner isn’t new to the 36-year-old. Lalas stated that adding Messi’s name, and at times Ronaldo, is the best way to highlight any story. 

“But this is Messi; this is the story. This is what’s driving this team and this is what driving the interest when it comes to Major League Soccer. You’re damn right we’re going to lean into it and we’d be stupid not to,” concluded Lalas. Indeed, these claims from the former defender make it clear regarding the longstanding debate between the two undeniable GOATs. Furthermore, Messi’s recent performance also tipped the scales in his favor, further solidifying his claim to the title over Ronaldo.

Lionel Messi dethrones Cristiano Ronaldo to clinch a unique title 

In a recent episode of the State of the Union podcast, Lalas and Mosse delved into the lasting impact of the Argentinian superstar at Fort Lauderdale. They praised Messi’s remarkable scoring prowess, with Mosse sharing an intriguing anecdote of a Madrid columnist named Alfredo Relano, who asserted that having Ronaldo on your team is similar to ‘start every match winning 1-0.’ 

Hence, Mosse drew parallels, suggesting that Messi’s presence with Inter Miami evokes a similar feeling, even when the team is trailing. He emphasized Messi’s ability to either score or set up goals, making it seem like his team always has a goal in hand. Much like his rival Ronaldo, the 8x Ballon d’Or winner instills a sense that his side is about to take the lead. Be that as it may, the Lionel Messi fever in the US continues unabated.