On Saturday, the action in Major League Soccer 2024 continues, and in the Inter Miami vs. DC United match, Lionel Messi is expected to return to action after missing the ‘Florida Clásico’ against Orlando City. Amid the much-anticipated return of the Herons’ captain, franchise owner David Beckham spoke about what having Messi in North America’s top division represents.
Messi, an inspiration to a U.S. generation
During his visit to the Good Morning America show, the sporting director of the South Florida franchise explained his Messi strategy.
“To go through all the obstacles I had to then look on the pitch and see Leo… it’s just an incredible thing. I always say that bringing Leo to America wasn’t just for Miami; it was for America and for the league, and for the sport, and that’s what I had really planned on doing.
“To inspire the next generation of kids, who can now come to any stadium around America and Canada and watch a talent like him and the other talents we have in the team.
“I always knew that bringing someone like Leo to Miami and to America would be a huge impact,” Beckham continued. “Obviously, with what he’s done on the field, and what he continues to do off the field as well. It’s not just about obviously winning trophies, which he’s still hungry to do, but he wants the academy kids to get better. He wants to meet every young kids when he travels around America. That’s the type of person he is.”
Inter Miami wants to continue its growth
Despite their early exit from the 2024 CONCACAF Champions Cup, Inter Miami and Messi remain ambitious about continuing their growth in MLS 2024 before the Copa América arrives. With the summer tournaments approaching, they anticipate losing some players, making the points they earn now incredibly valuable. Following this, the new edition of the Leagues Cup will coincide with the Olympic Games.
On Saturday, they return to action against a team featuring forward Christian Benteke, who poses a threat to the strong form of Messi, Suárez, and their teammates. The mission for the Fort Lauderdale club is to stay at the top of the Eastern Conference, and they will have the support of their fans to secure the victory.