It’s been three months since Lionel Messi first took the pitch for Inter Miami.
His magical free-kick winner against Cruz Azul on July 21st was a sign of things to come for the Herons. Despite how magisterial his debut might’ve been, the Argentine’s first start in Inter Miami colors was even better.
On July 25th, Messi started his first game for Miami against Atlanta United. It was the second match of the team’s Leagues Cup group stage campaign.
Head coach Tata Martino lined up his side in a typical 4-3-3. Robert Taylor, Josef Martinez, and Messi started as the front three. Benjamin Cremaschi, Sergio Busquets, and Dixon Arroyo were the midfield trio, and in defense were Noah Allen, Kamal Miller, Serhiy Kryvtsov, and DeAndre Yedlin.
Atlanta United came into this match looking confused, failing to press Busquets and Messi throughout the game. This saw the ex-Barcelona duo control and dictate the tempo of the match.
Most of the game would lean in Inter Miami’s favor, with the Herons ending the night with 61% of the possession and four goals.
As for Messi, the Argentine finished the match with two goals, one assist, and two chances created.
After the contest, Martino spoke about the performance, specifically singling out Busquets and Messi: “You saw this in the first half because the team circulates the ball well. These two players are so good at what they do, they create space you didn’t originally tactically draw up.”
Inter Miami’s evolution in 2023
A lot has changed since that game was played.
Miami would go on to win the tournament, beating Nashville SC 10-9 on penalties. Unfortunately, the Herons wouldn’t be able to keep up that momentum, failing to make the playoffs.
Although 2023 is considered a successful year for the club, missing out on the postseason is still a difficult pill to swallow.
Even with the year’s low points, the Herons still managed to sign the greatest player of all time, win silverware, and lay the foundation for the future.
Looking ahead to 2024, many Inter Miami supporters should get excited. With Luis Suárez potentially joining the team, and a full off-season of rest for the squad, the Herons look set to fly into another year of winning trophies.