Argentine coach Mauricio Pochettino, the head coach of the U.S. national team, emphasized that having Lionel Messi playing for Inter Miami is a “privilege” for the country and congratulated the Florida-based club for its vision and efforts in bringing the Argentine star to the MLS.

Messi, a luxury for the United States

Speaking at a press conference following his team’s 3-1 victory over Venezuela at the Chase Stadium in Fort Lauderdale, the home ground of Inter Miami, Pochettino highlighted the impact of Messi on the growth of soccer in the U.S. “It’s an incredible project. How lucky Miami and the MLS are to have Leo Messi. He’s the best player in the world, an eight-time Ballon d’Or winner, and watching him play is a spectacle. Having him here is a privilege for the United States,” he stated.

The coach also acknowledged Inter Miami’s effort in securing Messi. “The work Inter Miami has done to bring him here deserves recognition,” he added.

Beckham’s influence and soccer’s growth in the U.S.

Pochettino revealed that he sent a congratulatory message to David Beckham, co-owner of Inter Miami, not only for signing Messi but also for the high quality of the club’s facilities.

Reflecting on the development of soccer in the U.S., Pochettino addressed the challenges posed by competing sports such as American football, baseball, basketball, and hockey. “In other countries, we don’t face this kind of competition, but here, with 300 million inhabitants, there’s a huge opportunity for soccer to grow and attract more people. We’re working to speed up that process,” the Argentine coach explained.

The presence of Messi is not only transforming the MLS but also drawing significant attention to soccer in a country traditionally dominated by other sports, marking a pivotal moment for the league and the sport’s future in the United States.