Lionel Messi, the footballing maestro synonymous with excellence, has undergone a transformative evolution since stepping into the vibrant realm of Major League Soccer (MLS) with Inter Miami CF. As he embraces the twilight of his illustrious career, the 37-year-old Argentine superstar has recognized the necessity for a strategic shift in his playing style, a revelation that marks a significant chapter in his already storied legacy.
Messi’s arrival at Inter Miami in July 2023 as a free agent sent shockwaves throughout the football world. This move not only intensified interest in MLS but also served as a poignant reminder of how adapting to new environments is crucial for longevity in professional sports. In a candid conversation with Fabrizio Romano on the 433 app, Messi acknowledged the fundamental changes he has made to his game. “I’ve changed my style of play because of the moment, the situation and my age,” he shared. This assertion reflects a level of self-awareness that is often absent in athletes, particularly those who have dominated their fields for so long.
Every transition in a player’s career brings its own set of challenges, and Messi is no exception. The shift from the highly competitive European leagues to the contrasting dynamics of MLS required not only physical adaptation but also a mental recalibration. Messi expressed comfort in his new surroundings, indicating that he has not only embraced change but has also thrived in it. Scoring a dramatic goal within minutes of his debut against Cruz Azul in the Leagues Cup, he immediately demonstrated his ability to assert influence, propelling Inter Miami to its first trophy.
Despite Messi’s impact, the subsequent MLS regular season proved challenging for Inter Miami, culminating in a disappointing 14th-place finish in the Eastern Conference. The team’s struggles illustrated the complexities of team chemistry and overall performance in a new league, even for a player of Messi’s caliber. Nonetheless, his unwavering dedication to the club and its supporters has remained unshaken. Following the setbacks of 2023, the squad has shown marked improvement, capturing the MLS Supporters’ Shield in a record-setting manner during the 2024 season.
Messi’s individual statistics stand as a testament to his unmatched prowess. Leading the league in goal contributions—a remarkable 20 goals and 16 assists in merely 19 appearances—he has proven that age is merely a number. His selection as one of the finalists for the MLS MVP award further cements his significance in the league and the impact he has had on his teammates’ performances, amplifying the overall competitiveness of MLS.
As Miami prepped for the MLS Cup playoffs, Messi’s ambitions continued to center around winning titles. “To build a club you need to win titles,” he asserted, emphasizing his commitment to guiding Inter Miami to greater heights. The undercurrent of urgency in his words reveals a deep-seated understanding of the importance of success, not just for his personal satisfaction but for the long-term vision of the club. His leadership is becoming increasingly prominent, nurturing a winning mentality within a team that is still finding its identity in a league filled with competitive rivals.
In an emphatic display of resilience, Miami began their playoff journey with a hard-fought 2-1 victory against Atlanta United. Yet, Messi wasn’t shy to outline the areas needing improvement, highlighting the potential pitfalls arising from “silly mistakes” that can thwart their ambitions. His frank acknowledgment of the need for better focus in critical moments distinctively showcases a champion’s mentality—one that consistently aims for excellence while remaining grounded in reality.
As the MLS season edges toward its conclusion and the 2026 FIFA World Cup looms on the horizon, questions about Messi’s future continue to arise. Having signed a contract that extends through the end of the 2025 season, he finds himself in a contemplative space, contemplating not merely longevity but also the kind of legacy he wishes to leave behind. “I hope to finish this year well, and start the year having a good preseason,” he reflected, underscoring the importance of a strong foundation and readiness for the challenges ahead.
This candid admission lays bare the uncertainty that athletes regularly face as they transition into the latter stages of their careers. With the upcoming World Cup—a tournament that many believe could be Messi’s last—set to be held across the United States, Mexico, and Canada, the stakes are incredibly high. The prospect of competing in front of home fans at Miami’s Hard Rock Stadium, where he triumphed in the 2024 Copa América final, adds an emotional layer to his playing journey.
Lionel Messi stands at a crossroads marked by reinvention, resilience, and reflection. As he continues to adapt to the evolving landscape of football, his journey with Inter Miami CF is not merely about trophies; it’s about inspiring a new generation of players and fans, solidifying his legend, and leaving an indelible mark on both the league and the sport itself.