Lionel Messi’s Impact on Argentina and Major League Soccer

Lionel Messi’s decision to move to Inter Miami in 2023 is proving to be transformative. This move has elevated the profile of soccer in the United States, brought success to his club, and added a new chapter to his illustrious career. The biggest benefactor may be Argentina, as Messi, at 38, still showcases exceptional skills before what could be his last World Cup.

Argentina’s coach, Lionel Scaloni, praises Messi, saying, “Leo will be the best for as long as he wants; he has been doing it every single match for the last 20 years.” After Argentina’s opening game against Algeria, where Messi scored his first World Cup hat trick, Thierry Henry remarked, “Leo is just different. It’s just a different topic.” Now, Messi is tied with Miroslav Klose as the leading scorer in tournament history with 16 goals.

Despite his previous statement that the last World Cup might be his final, Messi continues to be Argentina’s central creative and attacking force. Fox analyst Alexi Lalas highlights Messi’s pivotal role, stating, “When it comes to Argentina, Messi is the system, he is the tactic, he’s the formation, he’s the identity and he is the heart.” Messi’s transition to American soccer has not diminished his internationally celebrated skill.

Messi’s move to Inter Miami marks a shift from the high-intensity European leagues, which appears beneficial during this phase in his career. He participates in fewer games compared to his Barcelona days, where he often played over 50 matches a season. This strategic move keeps him sharp and effective, even if not facing Europe’s top defenders regularly.

Messi’s 2022 World Cup victory with Argentina came after his departure from Barcelona, where he struggled to win international tournaments. Although PSG envisioned him delivering the Champions League, the French league didn’t provide the intensity of Spain’s. Yet, Messi excelled in the 2022 World Cup, scoring seven goals, including two in the final against France.

Messi continues to inspire his teammates with his dedication and drive to excel. Inter Miami’s Rodrigo De Paul shares the additional effort they invested to be in peak condition for the World Cup. “We killed ourselves to, physically, arrive in the best way,” De Paul said. Messi’s admiration for Rafa Nadal, as shown in a Netflix series, fuels his motivation to maintain top performance levels. For his team, his influence is unparalleled.

Coach Scaloni describes Messi’s impact as “spectacular.” He says, “His teammates view him both as a God and as a kid from the neighborhood.” Messi’s contribution goes beyond scoring goals; he embodies inspiration to both his teammates and fans worldwide. His presence will be sorely missed.