In a momentous celebration of talent, dedication, and the indomitable spirit of one of football’s greatest icons, Adidas has declared October 10th as Lionel Messi Day. This announcement comes in the wake of Messi’s remarkable journey to Major League Soccer (MLS) as a key player for Inter Miami. This proclamation is not just a tribute but a testament to his extraordinary influence on the beautiful game.
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A Tribute to the Argentine Talisman
Lionel Messi, the maestro of the soccer field, has enjoyed an illustrious career, widely hailed as one of the greatest players in the history of the sport. His recent move to Inter Miami has sent shockwaves through the US soccer scene. In 13 games for the Herons, he has displayed his unparalleled skills, netting 11 goals and providing five assists. While his performance has been nothing short of remarkable, it’s worth noting that Inter Miami didn’t secure a spot in the MLS playoffs, currently standing 14th in the MLS’s Eastern Conference.
The Unprecedented Popularity of Messi in the USA
Lionel Messi’s arrival in the United States has caused an incredible surge in soccer fervor. Tickets for Inter Miami games have skyrocketed in demand. The Major League Soccer itself has acknowledged the Messi phenomenon, as his jersey became the highest-selling on their website within just three months.
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— adidas Football (@adidasfootball) October 10, 2023
a day. a number. the goat.
we introduce from today that 10/10 is officially Messi Day. stay tuned for what's to come. you’re not ready. pic.twitter.com/nRw3VWZf13
Messi’s presence has drawn not only passionate soccer fans but also celebrities eager to witness the magic he brings to the field. His transfer to the United States and his subsequent success, including winning the Leagues Cup 2023 title, have firmly established him as a sports icon in the country.
The Top-Selling Jersey
In an astonishing revelation, the MLS disclosed that Lionel Messi’s number 10 jersey is the highest-selling in their online store for the year, covering the period from January 1 through September 12, 2023. This achievement is even more remarkable considering Messi’s arrival in the US only in July. He has not only set the soccer field ablaze but also conquered the hearts of American soccer enthusiasts.
A Glimpse at Other Top Sellers
While Messi’s jersey takes the top spot, it’s noteworthy that the MLS jersey sales list features other prominent names. Two of Messi’s teammates, Sergio Busquets and Josef Martinez, secured positions in the top 25, ranking 13th and 21st, respectively.
Additionally, the list highlights the significance of players such as João Klauss of St. Louis City, who claimed the second spot. Hany Mukhtar from Nashville SC, a crowd favorite, joins the top three.
Soccer enthusiasts can also find Austin FC’s Sebastián Driussi and Los Angeles FC’s Carlos Vela among the top five. These players have contributed significantly to the growing popularity of MLS.
A Bright Future for Messi and MLS
The burgeoning popularity of MLS, fueled in no small part by Lionel Messi’s presence, is indicative of an exciting future. As soccer fever continues to grip the United States, it wouldn’t be a surprise if Messi’s jersey sales leave an even more substantial imprint on the American sports market in the days to come. His legacy and the admiration he garners from fans around the world are bound to further elevate the status of soccer in the USA.
Lionel Messi Day on October 10th is not just a date; it’s a tribute to an athlete who has transcended boundaries and made an indelible mark on the sport of soccer, making it more popular and thrilling than ever in the United States.
Lionel Messi: No Loan Moves in Sight After MLS Season – Guillem Balague
In a recent update on the future of the iconic Argentine footballer Lionel Messi, it has been confirmed that the Inter Miami captain will not be embarking on any loan journeys when the Major League Soccer (MLS) season draws to a close. This insight comes from Spanish football expert Guillem Balague, who has shed light on Messi’s plans after the MLS season.
The End of Speculations: Return to Barcelona and Saudi Pro League Off the Table
Rumors had been circulating about Messi’s potential return to Barcelona or a move to the Saudi Pro League once his obligations with Inter Miami concluded. However, it seems those speculations can now be put to rest. Inter Miami’s season came to an unfortunate end after a 1-0 loss to FC Cincinnati, and the team’s final game is slated for October 21.
Messi’s Recent Challenges
Lionel Messi, a legend of the sport and a World Cup winner with Argentina, has faced a series of challenges in the MLS. Injuries have limited his playing time, with Messi logging just 72 minutes on the field since early September. This factor has made many question his future in the league.
Upcoming Break and Pre-season Plans
After the conclusion of the MLS regular season, Argentina’s national team has World Cup qualifiers against Uruguay and Brazil scheduled for November 17 and 22. Following these commitments, Messi is expected to take a well-deserved month-long holiday, much like other professional footballers.
Spanish football expert Balague clarified, “Messi will have around one month’s holiday, like other footballers. So forget any move to Saudi or similar.” This confirms that there won’t be any loan moves or transfers on the horizon.
Looking Forward to the Next Season with Inter Miami
Lionel Messi’s journey with Inter Miami, which commenced in July following his transfer from Paris St-Germain, has experienced both highs and lows. He steered the club to their first Leagues Cup triumph in August, but they came up short in the US Open Cup. Despite netting 11 goals in 13 matches, only one of those goals was in his five MLS appearances.
The possibility of Messi returning to Barcelona has been a topic of discussion since he departed for Paris St-Germain in 2021, following a remarkable 21-year tenure with the Catalan club. Nevertheless, when questioned about these rumors, Inter Miami manager Tata Martino expressed his surprise, saying, “That’s surprising. I know nothing about that. If you’re telling me that he’s going to go visit Barcelona on vacation, yes, it’s probable, but I don’t have any information on the other part.”
As the MLS season comes to a close, and Messi prepares for some well-deserved rest, the football world eagerly awaits to see what the future holds for one of the game’s genuine legends.
