Fort Lauderdale, Dec 7 (LatestNewsX) – Inter Miami skipper Lionel Messi lauded his teammates for their relentless determination, saying it was their steadfast effort that led the club to its MLS Cup win.
The 38‑year‑old Argentine emphasized that the 3‑1 triumph over the Vancouver Whitecaps on Saturday was a fitting reward for a marathon season that saw Miami play 58 games across all competitions.
“One of the objectives when we arrived here was this,” Messi told reporters, recalling the milestone he set upon joining Miami alongside ex‑Barcelona teammates Jordi Alba and Sergio Busquets in July 2023.
“We clinched the Leagues Cup as soon as we got off the ground. That season, we took on every competition, reached another Leagues Cup final and even made it to a CONCACAF Champions Cup semifinal.
“Last year we topped the league but exited early in the playoffs. Winning MLS this year became a primary goal, and the squad rose to the occasion. It was a long, demanding year with plenty of fixtures, but the team was up to the task.”
Messi played a pivotal role in the cup victory, delivering assists to both Rodrigo De Paul and Tadeo Allende as Miami pulled away from the Canadian side in the latter stages. He finished the MLS campaign with 23 assists and 35 goals across 33 matches.
In all competitions for Miami in 2025, the eight‑time Ballon d’Or winner netted 43 times and found the back of the net 26 times in 49 outings.
Messi also paid tribute to Alba and Busquets, who announced their retirement at the end of the season.
“Something very beautiful is ending for them, something to which they dedicated their whole lives. From now on, another life begins. I wish them the best because they are two friends I care about very much, and I’m happy they can leave with this title,” Messi said.
Stay informed on all the latest news, real-time breaking news updates, and follow all the important headlines in world News on Latest NewsX. Follow us on social media Facebook, Twitter(X), Gettr and subscribe our Youtube Channel.
