Lionel Messi: How the Inter Miami maestro puts up the greatest individual season in MLS history

NEW DELHI: Lionel Messi's arrival in MLS has been nothing short of spectacular, as evidenced by his incredible performance in his first game of the season. In a moment that showcased his unparalleled skill, Messi effortlessly chipped the ball over a fallen defender, Andrew Brody, before collecting it in stride and firing a shot at goal.
The audacious move left his Inter Miami teammates in awe, with midfielder Julian Gressel exclaiming, "Oh my god, he just chipped the guy at full speed and got a shot off."
At 36 years old, Messi continues to evolve his game in fascinating ways, refusing to rest on his laurels despite his numerous accolades, including eight Ballon d'Or awards.His presence in the global spotlight will be felt once again this summer when he joins Argentina for the Copa América, but even in MLS matches against lesser-known opponents, every minute of football he plays is a thrilling and unmissable experience.
Inter Miami's team may bear some resemblance to Messi's former Barcelona squads, with familiar faces like Luis Suárez, Sergio Busquets, and Jordi Alba, but the similarities end there. Surrounded by a mix of young, athletic prospects from South America, Messi finds himself in a more open, end-to-end style of play than he has experienced in his club career.
This has led to a shift in his role, as he now drops deeper to help build play from the back and weaves through lines with quick one-twos, showcasing his unrivalled vision and passing ability.
Messi's impact on the league is undeniable, as he leads MLS in assists and is among the top scorers, averaging an impressive 1.18 goals per 90 minutes played. His ability to break into the penalty area and create chances for himself and his teammates is a testament to his enduring brilliance.
While Inter Miami may not go down as the greatest team in MLS history due to their defensive frailties, they are currently top of the league and must-see TV whenever Messi takes the field. It is clear that Messi is not letting the league retire him; instead, he is retiring the league on his own terms, cementing his legacy as one of the greatest players to ever grace the game.
(Inputs from agencies)