Manager of Inter Miami, Gerardo Tata Martino, recently shed light on the unwavering winning mentality that courses through Lionel Messi’s veins. This revelation came after a somewhat frustrating goalless draw against Nashville in the previous month.
Despite enjoying a commanding 69% possession and mustering 13 shots during the game, Inter Miami found themselves held to a goalless stalemate. However, the scoreline alone fails to encapsulate the entirety of the narrative.
Tata Martino unveiled the intensity of Messi’s desire for victory. He recounted how the star player’s dissatisfaction was palpable following the draw, demonstrating an almost insatiable hunger for triumph.
Martino recounted the exchange, stating, “Leo was visibly frustrated after our scoreless draw against Nashville. I had to tell him ‘Relax, we are not going to win every game’… he was very bitter, he’s on a permanent quest to win, and it’s very difficult to change that mentality.”
Inter Miami head coach Tata Martino had to tell Lionel Messi to ‘relax’ after their scoreless draw against Nashville SC 😮
His winning mentality 🐐 pic.twitter.com/qzDkhVALJX
— ESPN FC (@ESPNFC) September 14, 2023
This revealing anecdote only serves to enhance the admiration for Inter Miami’s marquee player. Messi, who has already achieved virtually everything in the sport, continues to exude an unparalleled drive to secure victory, even in a league like MLS, which may not carry the same level of global prestige as La Liga or Premier League.
This remarkable winning mentality extends beyond his club commitments. While on international duty with Argentina, Messi exemplified a similar hunger for success. He chose to join the national squad in Bolivia, not solely for match-day action but to provide unwavering support to his teammates in training and off the field.
Inter Miami is set to travel to Atlanta for their upcoming MLS fixture against Atlanta United. Atlanta United currently occupies the 6th place in the Eastern Conference standings, setting the stage for what promises to be an intriguing clash.
Lionel Messi might go to Australia with Inter Miami
Inter Miami, led by Lionel Messi, is fervently striving to secure one of the coveted top nine positions in the Eastern Conference, thereby earning a spot in the knockout rounds of the MLS Cup. This pursuit of playoff qualification is a top priority for the team.
Nevertheless, pragmatic preparations for an alternative scenario have come to light. In the event that Inter Miami falls short of making the playoffs, contingency plans have emerged.
Lionel Messi’s Inter Miami could soon be making their way to Australia 🇦🇺👀
Several promoters are said to be trying to lock in government support to bring Lionel Messi’s Inter Miami to Australia either at the end of the MLS season or during next pre-season.
[@VinceRugari] pic.twitter.com/C8jJaThIJ8
— ozhubfootball (@ozhubfootball) September 14, 2023
Reports indicate that Lionel Messi and Inter Miami could potentially embark on an exciting journey to Australia in the upcoming weeks. Discussions are underway between the Major League Soccer club and various promoters, setting the stage for Messi’s third, and quite possibly, final visit to the Land Down Under in his capacity as a player.
The proposed tour holds the promise of Inter Miami facing off against A-League teams. The potential clubs include opponents like Perth Glory FC and Melbourne City FC. This tour would serve as a valuable opportunity for enhancing the club’s presence and fan base in a distinct continent.
The MLS Cup playoffs are scheduled to begin in late October. If Inter Miami fails to qualify for the playoffs, this venture to Australia would present the team with an intriguing and constructive alternative path.