There were many factors leading to Lionel Messi’s sensational move to Inter Miami this summer, but it has now been claimed that one man had a bigger impact than anyone in his arrival.
Whilst Inter Miami co-owner David Beckham did play a huge part in bringing Messi, Sergio Busquets and Jordi Alba to the club, the decision to hire manager Tata Martino has now gained credit as a big lure for Messi to join.
Messi played under Martino for one season at Barcelona a decade ago, but is loving life under his former coach in Miami, and Philadelphia Union manager Jim Curtin has praised him, claiming that he was a major influence in Messi’s decision to join given his talents as a manager.
“Sometimes people forget, he was the first piece. I think Messi comes because Tata’s there, Busquets comes because Tata’s there and Alba, as well,” he stated.
“He was the first move in this whole thing that really transformed the club, he’s the leader, an incredible coach, an incredible person.”
Martino’s underrated impact
Whilst Messi has deservedly taken the plaudits for helping Miami turn their failing season around, Martino has also had an incredible impact on the team.
Martino joined just before Messi, and has helped build a side filled with younger talents as well as the big three, and Miami are now set to take part in a second cup final under him.
Inter Miami’s previous coaches, including Phil Neville, have not been anywhere near as successful as Martino, and the former Argentina manager is currently enjoying life in MLS.
Martino had a tough time at Barcelona, and has since coached the Argentina and Mexico national teams as well as Atlanta United, and he is now finding that his reputation is being restored after a few difficult years at club and national level, which also saw him lose two Copa America finals with Argentina.