Lionel Messi enjoyed a memorable MLS debut as Inter Miami won 2-0 against New York Red Bulls. Since making his debut for Inter Miami, Messi has been on a roll. The Argentine star has now 14 goal contributions in a 9-game-winning streak for Inter Miami. However, despite his heroics against New York Red Bulls, Messi’s MLS debut might end on a sour note.
Lionel Messi‘s MLS debut was a highly anticipated match that saw ticket prices soar to a whopping $3000. Despite their defeat, the NY Red Bulls supporters gave Messi a rousing reception. Moreover, New York’s iconic Times Square stood still as the Inter Miami star took on his first MLS rivals. However, Messi can find himself in deep waters after failing to comply with MLS’ one strict rule.
According to MLS rules, every player has to make himself available for post-match interviews. This rule has been strictly communicated to all MLS clubs, including Inter Miami, by Dan Courtemanche, the division’s executive vice president of communications. However, following Inter Miami’s clash against New York Red Bulls, the Herons’ spokesperson Molly Dreska announced that Messi wouldn’t appear for any interviews.
Throughout his career, Lionel Messi has rarely appeared for post-match interviews. While Messi has remained unscathed by refusing to do post-match interviews for so long, the Argentine skipper now faces the risk of being punished after failing to comply with MLS media regulations.
However, owing to Messi’s massive stature and the popularity he has brought to the league, it’s unlikely that he will face any sanctions.
Inter Miami defender labels Lionel Messi a “distraction”
Lionel Messi’s impact since arriving at Inter Miami has been massive! The 2022 World Cup winner has immediately transformed Inter Miami from a bottom-placed MLS team into a title contender. Messi has already led Inter Miami to their maiden title, winning the Leagues Cup a few weeks ago. Currently, Messi’s side will get a shot at winning their second title in the US Open Cup final.
🗣Kamal Miller (Inter Miami defender ) :
“Sometimes i catch myself watching Leo Messi instead of doing my job (laughs 😀). It’s hard not to enjoy him and more difficult to stay focused when you have such a great presence.” pic.twitter.com/ohFFHFPy8i
— PSG Chief (@psg_chief) August 27, 2023
Most recently, Inter Miami defender Kamal Miller talked about Lionel Messi’s massive impact on the team. Kamal said, “I just catch myself watching him instead of picking up on my assignment. It’s tough to stay focused when you have such a great presence.”
Despite admitting to being distracted, it’s tough to criticize Kamal Miller since watching Messi on the pitch often leaves everyone hypnotized.
🎙️ “Audience cheers and applause for Messi?”
🇨🇦🗣️ Kamal Miller: “It’s so surreal… Lionel Messi is probably the only man in the world who deserves that kind of respect. Of all the cities we visited, this one showed the most support for him.” pic.twitter.com/Fb0oz8yOz6
— Barça Worldwide (@BarcaWorldwide) August 28, 2023
Kamal further talked about how Lionel Messi was warmly welcomed by the New York Red Bulls supporters. The Canadian soccer star said, “It’s pretty surreal to see. He’s probably the only man in the world who would get that sort of respect, that sort of reception.” Miller further highlighted how special it has been to watch players like Messi, Sergio Busquets, and Jordi Alba in action.