This summer, Messi made an impressive switch to Inter Miami after his two-season stint with Paris Saint Germain in Ligue 1. Since joining Beckham’s MLS team, he’s been remarkable, scoring 11 goals and providing five assists in just 14 appearances.
However, this move might not have unfolded as smoothly as Beckham hoped if Barcelona had their way during the summer transfer window. Speaking to The Times, the former Manchester United and England legend admitted his concern about Barcelona potentially luring Messi back.
Beckham shared, “We always knew there would be competition. The time I got a bit worried was when Barcelona showed interest.”
“The club obviously pulls on his heartstrings and he never really got to say the goodbye he deserved there.”
“That was the only time I started to worry he might go somewhere else. But we did everything possible — me, Jorge and Jose [Mas].”
Messi’s legacy at Barcelona spans 16 years, rising through La Masia academy and making 778 appearances, contributing to an astonishing 975 goals. Despite Barcelona’s desire to reconnect with Messi in the summer, he opted for a fresh challenge in the US with Inter Miami, leaving behind an illustrious history of ten La Liga titles and four Champions League triumphs.
For Beckham, securing Messi’s signature for his Florida-based team was a dream come true. “Getting that phone call that he’s decided to come to us… It still gives me goose bumps.”
“I promised the fans and people of Miami that I wanted to bring some of the best players in the world. I am sure every owner says that but, from day one, he was the dream player I wanted to bring to Miami.”
“I see him in our kit, I watch him train and play, and I can’t believe that we have Lionel Messi in our club.” Beckham added.
The impact of the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner on Inter Miami has been significant, notably contributing to their maiden trophy, the Leagues Cup.
Lionel Messi
Lionel Andrés Messi Cuccittini
This season he played in total 6 times for 372 minutes for Major League Soccer.
Lionel Messi scored 1 goal for Inter Miami. He procured two assists. He received no yellow cards and no red cards.
His team is currently 14th in Major League Soccer. In the last match Inter Miami lost 1-0 against Charlotte.
Inter Miami performance and stats
Inter Miami is currently 14th in the Major League Soccer with 34 points.
In the last 34 games, it has won 9 times, drawn 7 times, and lost 18 times. In its last match, Inter Miami lost 1-0 against Charlotte.
It has a negative goal difference after scoring 41 goals and conceding 54.