Lionel Messi is proud of winning the Leagues Cup, reaching the final of the American National Cup and fighting to the final rounds of the MLS eastern tournament.
“Proud of everything Inter Miami has achieved this season,” Messi wrote on Instagram on October 22, right after the final match of Inter Miami’s 2023 season. “With everyone’s efforts, we won the Leagues Cup, the first title in our history, reached the final of the America’s Cup, and fought for the MLS Cup playoffs until the last moment. together”.
Messi also thanked Inter Miami fans, the people of Miami city and other fans. He expects the team to improve next year, to compete better. “Surely we will continue to have wonderful moments together like these past months,” Messi added. “A hug for everyone”.
Messi and his teammates lifted the Leagues Cup after the final on August 20. Photo: AFP
Messi has been playing for Inter Miami since July 21, after joining on a free basis. Previously, the 36-year-old striker’s contract with PSG ended. Not long after moving, Messi helped Inter Miami win the Leagues Cup, a mixed tournament between MLS clubs and the Mexican championship. It was the club’s first title after five years of establishment. Messi personally scored 10 goals on that journey and also won the title of top scorer.
Messi also helped Inter Miami reach the final of the America’s Cup after a 5-4 penalty shootout victory over FC Cincinnati, the team leading the MLS 2023 final table (3-3 draw in 120 minutes). In total, in 14 games for his new team, the 36-year-old striker scored 11 goals and assisted three times.
Messi’s winning journey in America only stopped due to injury. During the World Cup champion’s break, Inter Miami lost 1-2 to Houston Dynamo in the America’s Cup final and several other matches. They finished the MLS East Division 14th out of 15 teams, meaning they did not qualify for the play-off round for the top nine teams.
On November 5 and 8, Inter Miami will play two friendly matches at club level in China. After that, the whole team takes a break until January 2024, then returns to prepare for the new season starting at the end of February.
According to media, Inter Miami could loan Messi to a European club during the winter transfer window. However, the Argentine striker denied this.
