No more doubt — Barcelona legend Pique explains how Messi transformed MLS

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Lionel Messi and Gerard Pique were members of the era defining Barcelona side. || Image credit: Imago

No more doubt — Barcelona legend Pique explains how Messi transformed MLS

Faruq Ibrahim 17:35 - 24.02.2024

Gerard Piqué credits Argentine for expansion of MLS, and said his former teammate has cleared all doubts about his standing as the best footballer in history.

Gerard Piqué has lavished praise on Lionel Messi, his former Barcelona teammate, attributing the expansion of soccer in the United States to Messi's high-profile move to Inter Miami. 

According to Piqué, Messi's transfer has not only bolstered the sport's popularity across the Atlantic but has also cemented his status as the greatest of all time (GOAT), especially after leading Argentina to World Cup glory in 2022.

Messi's Magic Touch in Miami

Since arriving at Inter Miami, Lionel Messi, at 36, has been nothing short of transformative for soccer's footprint in the U.S. Piqué, in conversation with ESPN, highlighted the Argentine's joy and fulfillment following his World Cup win, seeing his move to MLS as a continuation of his legacy. 

"I see Leo happy, he fulfilled all his dreams when he started playing. The World Cup was the epitome of everything and I think that in Miami he is expanding soccer. With his image and the fact of playing in the MLS, he made the United States gain strength," Piqué remarked.

Solidifying the GOAT Status

Messi's unparalleled career, decorated with eight Ballon d'Or awards, has been a topic of admiration and debate. However, Piqué believes any lingering doubts about Messi's greatness were dispelled following his World Cup triumph. 

Former Barcelona teammates Gerard Pique and Lionel Messi
Former Barcelona teammates Gerard Pique and Lionel Messi

"Football people wanted Messi to be world champion. Especially because of the doubters who questioned his career, and said he was missing the World Cup. I think there are no longer any doubts. He is the best player in the history of football. He elevated Barcelona to another dimension," Piqué asserted.

In his debut MLS season, Messi dazzled fans with 11 goals in 14 appearances, demonstrating his undiminished prowess and driving Inter Miami to be viewed as serious contenders for the MLS Cup. 

Kicking off the 2024 season, Messi already made his mark with an assist in the victory over Real Salt Lake, signaling another promising campaign.

With the team gearing up for their next challenge against LA Galaxy and a quick follow-up match against Orlando City, the excitement around Messi and Inter Miami continues to surge.

Under the ownership of David Beckham and the guidance of coach Gerardo Martino, Messi's presence has elevated not just the team's ambitions but also the league's stature, proving once again why he's regarded as soccer's supreme talent.

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