Lionel Messi – the name’s synonymous with soccer greatness. His transition into the MLS and Inter Miami has brought unprecedented global attention to the league. So much so that now an experienced La Liga veteran and a former rival hints at moving out to the States to try his luck in mirroring La Pulga’s Inter Miami move.

While soccer legends like David Beckham, Zlatan Ibrahimovic, and Wayne Rooney paved the way for mainstream soccer to permeate into the American soccer scene – the influence of GOATs like Messi has motivated many rising names as well as veterans to join the MLS.

Former La Liga rivals lauds MLS move by Lionel Messi

We’re talking about Inaki Williams, the Athletic Bilbao number 9, who’s on a scoring spree this La Liga season. For those of you who aren’t up to speed – Lionel Messi and the Ghanaian forward have clashed during the Argentinian’s golden Barcelona days. And the imprints of his shared time with La Pulga have definitely stirred up his ambitions.

Recently, Williams flew over to Charlotte, North Carolina, for an international friendly between Ghana and Mexico. Although he’s still loyal and committed to his role at his La Liga club, he aspired to be able to join Messi in the MLS. He quoted, “When I’m not so useful at Bilbao – [I’d like] to continue my career in the United States, because it’s a place where I would like to live for one or two years. God willing that I can be in MLS, or god willing that I cross paths with Leo [Messi] again.”

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He further confessed, “Leo plays great football – he’s one of the greatest forwards in history. The excitement he creates, his foundation, his legacy. We have all enjoyed him a lot, and now it’s his turn to enjoy the United States.”

What’s more – the Bilbao #9 also hailed the arrival of Spanish and European soccer icons like Sergio Busquets and Jordi Alba. Williams drew comparisons, reflecting on how the American soccer scene has evolved ever since Messi moved to the States. “I believe each time people in the United States are going to be drawn to the league here thanks to great players that are arriving and Leo is one of those”.

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But is the Argentinian the first soccer GOAT to step onto American soil? As it turns out, Pele, the Brazilian soccer maestro was the first to make his impact felt on the soccer scene in the United States. However, Messi’s unrivaled fame has definitely one-upped his peers and predecessors in terms of the kind of influence and attention he’s brought to the American soccer scene!

Why La Pulga’s move to the MLS may have been a Game-changer

The MLS, although steadily growing in popularity over the years, has witnessed a seismic shift in its stature with Lionel Messi and his Inter Miami move. To put this into context, let’s look back at the league’s trajectory.

Soccer legends like David Beckham, Zlatan Ibrahimovich, and Wayne Rooney were instrumental in bringing mainstream soccer to the American soccer scene. Their contributions, while significant, laid the foundation for Lionel Messi to enter this vibrant soccer landscape. And commercially, the seven-time Ballon d’Or’s move to the MLS is a game-changer. 

But what sets him apart from his predecessors is the sheer magnitude of his global appeal and his status as one of the greatest soccer players in history. While other stars like Beckham and Ibrahimovic were charismatic pitchmen, Messi’s influence extends far beyond the confines of a commercial icon. His magnetic presence, remarkable skill, and prolific goal-scoring ability have garnered fans from every corner of the globe.

It’s not just about bringing in more star power, it’s about his unique ability to captivate soccer enthusiasts worldwide. More than Beckham, Ibrahimovich, or even legends of the past like Johan Cruyff, Franz Beckenbauer, and Pele, Lionel Messi’s global reach transcends borders. In today’s interconnected world, Messi’s presence resonates with fans and soccer aficionados on a global scale. So, what do you make of this confession from Messi’s former rival? Drop your thoughts in the comments below!

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