Even Lionel Messi’s teammates get star-struck from time to time.
For Miami-born midfielder Benjamin Cremaschi, that much was true.
In an interview with the CBS Golazo Show, the youngster spoke about meeting Messi for the first time.
“I grew up watching him play. I grew up watching a lot of Argentinian players play. Now, that I can share, not only the field, but day-to-day life with such a player, it’s something I can’t describe,” Cremaschi said.
“Obviously, shaking his hand, he was someone that I had looked up to and grew up watching, an idol for a lot of kids. That was a really nerve-wracking moment in my life, for sure. Oh, my god, he’s right in front of me. That was a crazy, surreal moment, for sure.”
Cremaschi quickly shot up the ranks of Inter Miami due to his Leagues Cup performances. Playing alongside Messi, the 18-year-old Key Biscayne native was crucial in the midfield, starting almost every match during Miami’s run to the final.
As 2024 approaches, Cremaschi will undoubtedly be called on by manager Tata Martino to start in midfield.
Inter Miami’s 2024 plans
Inter Miami wants 2024 to be successful, and Cremaschi will be a part of that. His skill set will be the ideal partnership for an aging Miami midfield.
The club is already taking steps to ensure they can fight for more trophies next season.
According to Sporting Director Chris Henderson, Miami is expected to be aggressive within the trade market: “Without tipping what we’re going to do in trades, I do feel that we need to have competition in every spot.”
Miami ended the 2023 season on a low note, failing to make the playoffs. In order to avoid that same fate, the Herons will be revamping its roster to compete.
With reports indicating that Luis Suárez could join the team in January and a full off-season of rest for Messi, Sergio Busquets, and Jordi Alba, Miami will be one of the favorites to win MLS Cup next year.
Although work remains to be done to achieve that goal, Inter Miami’s front office is prepared to do everything to make it happen: “We’re looking at everything to [improve the squad.] We have high hopes for 2024, and we want to show what we can do as a club.”