Home

Soccer

“I’m a Bit Puzzled” – Wayne Rooney Fires Shots at David Beckham Over Lionel Messi Transfer but Optimistic of MLS Competition With Saudi Arabia

Published 06/21/2023, 9:30 AM EDT

Follow Us

via Imago

The soccer world was stunned when Lionel Messi completed his move to Inter Miami. The Argentinian superstar finally broke the silence on his future as he announced his decision to play in the MLS. All eyes are set on the FIFA World Cup winner, who has yet to grace the league since his arrival.

The whole soccer world questioned his decision as he was touted to make a billion-dollar move to Saudi Arabia. Also, a fairytale return to Camp Nou was around the corner. However, it was Beckham’s franchise that the former Barcelona man chose. In fact, former Manchester United legend Wayne Rooney has joined the bandwagon, who also fired shots at his transfer.

Wayne Rooney questions David Beckham over the transfer of Lionel Messi

ADVERTISEMENT

Article continues below this ad

While the soccer world talks about Messi’s latest transfer decision, Rooney also dips his toes in the debate. While speaking to the Manchester United Evening News, the former United man praised his arrival in the MLS. “I think the league has been growing and Messi coming over is huge news,” said Rooney. “I am sure you will see a lot of different players coming over.”

via Getty

However, the ex-England star was surprised at how David Beckham managed to pull off his signing. “I am a bit puzzled how Miami has managed to do it as I thought they were under an embargo. But it is great and I am sure everyone is excited to see him here.” However, the Current DC United manager feels isn’t going to be easy for him to play in the MLS.

Trending

Get instantly notified of the hottest Soccer stories via Google! Click on Follow Us and Tap the Blue Star.

Follow Us

Rooney insists that the league has its difficulties and believes he won’t come here and “tear it up immediately.” He says the level of the league is much different, and it won’t be an easy ride for him. While weighing in La Pulga’s move, he also drew comparisons between the MLS and Cristiano Ronaldo’s Saudi League.

Rooney sets high hopes for MLS to compete with Saudi Pro League

ADVERTISEMENT

Article continues below this ad

In the process, Rooney also compared Messi’s MLS arrival with Cristiano Ronaldo’s Saudi Pro League. The former Everton man also believes his move to MLS could inspire others to join and highlights its appeal both on and off the pitch. While making the admission of the best player in the world, he said, “The fanbase around him will be huge, commercially for the league I am sure it will be huge as well so it is massive for MLS.”

via Imago

He then commented on Ronaldo’s emphatic move to Saudi Arabia, suggesting the CR7 opened the doors for Karim Benzema. Rooney says Messi’s arrival opens the doors for the American soccer league. Despite being aware of the financial advantage Saudi has, he believes MLS can compete with the other growing leagues. Aside from this, Rooney also talked about the impact of other soccer stars, including Beckham and Zlatan, on the MLS. And following Messi’s arrival, he says the league is set to take flights of success.

ADVERTISEMENT

Article continues below this ad

WATCH THIS STORY | 2 Years After Wanting to ‘Kill’ Him, Lionel Messi Gifts One of His Iconic Awards to His World Cup Winning Teammate in a Wholesome Gesture

What are your thoughts on Wayne Rooney’s words? Let us know in the comments.

SHARE THIS ARTICLE :

Written by:

Abhishek Mishra

1,979Articles

One take at a time

Abhishek Mishra is a soccer writer at EssentiallySports. Abhishek's love for soccer began during his childhood days when he spent most of his time playing and watching the sport. His early exposure to soccer earned him many accolades at district and zonal levels, making him a true sports enthusiast.
Show More>

Edited by:

Akash Pandhare