“MLS Is a Strategic Option” – Despite Alleged Feud With Lionel Messi, Gerard Pique Highly Regards His Inter Miami Move

Lionel Messi’s arrival in the United States was a major boost to American soccer. The Argentine had already been a source of good fortune to his team and MLS. Meanwhile, a former Barcelona teammate of Messi put aside their alleged feud to give a ringing endorsement of his transfer.

Gerard Pique was supportive of La Pulga’s decision to join Inter Miami. The Spanish defender was well-versed in Messi’s influence both on and off the field, and he is confident that the Herons will reap the rewards of his signing.

What did Pique have to say about Messi’s transfer to Miami?

Pique expressed that Major League is a good fit for the 7x Ballon D’or in this later stage of his career. He said, “MLS is a strategic option for Messi. He always wanted to have an experience like this. It will be good for him.” The world champion signed a two-and-a-half-year contract with Inter Miami worth $150 million in base salary, plus additional compensation from MLS partners Adidas and Apple. Messi’s signing had put MLS on the map and made it a more attractive destination for top talents.

The former Spanish defender was prescient when he said, “Just look at what has happened in his first few games… Messi has an important quality and the whole league will benefit”. MLS indeed benefited from Messi’s arrival in South Florida with one million new season pass buyers from Apple TV. Inter Miami’s commercial success and performance had also improved since the signing of the world champion who scored 3 goals and 1 assist in 2 games for the club.

Although Pique’s continued praise of Lionel Messi was surprising, given that he played a certain role in the Argentine’s departure from Barcelona.

Read more: Despite Feud With Gerard Pique Leaving Him Betrayed, Lionel Messi’s Kids Set to Study in the Same School as Shakira’s After Inter Miami Move

Pique’s role in Lionel Messi’s departure from Barcelona

Messi’s decision to leave Barcelona in 2021 was a major shock to the soccer world. The Catalan Giants couldn’t strike a deal with the World Cup winner despite verbally agreeing with the terms of the new contract. La Pulga’s contract with Barcelona could not be extended due to the financial regulations of La Liga. But the fans were shocked by the message that Pique delivered to the President of Barcelona.

The former Spanish world cup winner persuaded Joan Laporta to stop the club from renewing any deal for the Argentine. Messi was disappointed and felt betrayed by his former teammate and the club when he could not continue playing for Barcelona. It was an emotional farewell for the Argentine maestro departing Barca after 21 years of pure legacy.

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Despite being a part of Messi’s departure two years back, Pique still had his appreciation for the record goal scorer. How did you feel about what the former Barca defender said about La Pulga? Comment below and let us know.