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News, Blog and GuidesThe former USMNT captain spoke about the impact that the Argentinian World Cup winner has had since signing for Inter Miami.
William GittinsWillGittEstados UnidosUpdate: Aug 20th, 2023 16:27 EDT
KEVIN C. COXAFP
Within a month of arriving in Miami, Lionel Messi has led his new team to the first trophy in their history. Inter Miami lifted the Leagues Cup on Saturday evening after a thrilling penalty shoot out victory over Nashville SC.
Ahead of the final, former player and USMNT legend Landon Donovan told TUDN that the Messi phenomenon is unprecedented in the United States, surpassing anything he witnessed when David Beckham signed for LA Galaxy.
“I didn’t think Messi’s arrival was going to be crazy. Beckham’s arrival touched me, but what’s happening right now with Messi is incredible,” Donovan explained.
He continued: ”I didn’t have to play against Messi, that’s why I have six championships! I think that for the moment he is still the best player in the world and he can win the title here in MLS.”
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Lionel Messi scored the opener in the Leagues Cup final and lifted the trophy for Inter Miami.TIM NWACHUKWUAFP
Donovan: ‘Messi’s debut was special’
Major League Soccer has ranked Landon Donovan as the greatest American male soccer player of all time. Alongside his six MLS Cup triumphs, Donovan was named the Best Young Player at the 2002 World Cup and he finished his career as the second-highest MLS goal scorer of all time.
However even he has been awe-struck by the impact that Messi has had on Inter Miami and soccer in the US more broadly. Interest in the game has soared and tickets to watch Miami are among the most highly sought-after in American sport.
Love to see it. 🤝©️Leo Messi made sure previous @InterMiamiCF captain DeAndre Yedlin played an equal role in lifting the club's first trophy. pic.twitter.com/LOoY0ip751
— Major League Soccer (@MLS) August 20, 2023
Miami’s journey to their Leagues Cup triumph has featured countless moments of Messi magic, but for Donovan it was his first appearance that will stick in the memory. Messi came off the bench on his Miami debut to score an injury time winner with a stunning free kick.
