In the space of a few weeks, key elements have combined to produce one of the most remarkable moments in MLS history
When Messi first stepped onto the field for Miami one month ago, he was seen as the potential savior of a last-place team. The question was just how long it would take.
Messi’s one month in the U.S. has changed the nature of the question. It’s no longer about how quickly he can change Inter Miami. It’s how much he can change Miami — and MLS, and perhaps American soccer as well.Messi scored off a freekick, then wanted more. Messi is the superstar, of course. He’s counted on to deliver game-changing moments and take the team on his back when they need it. He’s also taken on the role of protector. Against Orlando City, he didn’t shy from tackles and scraps. It was the same against Philadelphia when Jose Martinez kicked at Noah Allen on the ground in the second half.
That the first planned press conference didn’t take place in July was indicative of the chaos of Messi’s first days in the U.S., and also the give-and-take that comes with the notoriously media-shy Messi. A month later, while the spotlight had not dimmed, the reality around the move to the U.S. had changed. Inter Miami was unbeaten in six consecutive games and was set to play in a final. Messi had nine goals in those six games.
Hints of his comfort in Miami have been evident even in the public eye. After goals he’s scored in Miami’s home stadium, Messi has turned toward the on-field suites where his family sits and celebrated with nods toward Marvel superheroes. First, it was Thor summoning his hammer. Then Black Panther. Most recently, it was Spiderman.
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