In a remarkable turn of events, Inter Miami’s official social media account experienced an unprecedented surge, witnessing a phenomenal increase from 2.1 to 4.5 million followers within a mere 12 hours. This surge in followers more than doubled the accumulated count over the past five years, catapulting Inter Miami into the spotlight.
However, the reverberations of the momentous “Lionel Messi effect” extended far beyond Inter Miami. The announcement of Messi joining the team sent shockwaves throughout Major League Soccer (MLS), signifying a potential game-changing moment for football in the United States and Canada.
Amidst the frenzy, MLS itself took to Twitter to express their elation, declaring, “The goat (greatest of all time) is coming. Millions of MLS fans all over the world welcome you, Leo.” The statement encapsulated the overwhelming excitement and anticipation among soccer enthusiasts worldwide.
Even MLS Commissioner Don Garber couldn’t contain his enthusiasm, taking to Twitter to share his excitement, proclaiming, “This should be fun,” emphasizing the significant impact Messi’s arrival could have on the league.
Jim Curtin, the head coach of the Philadelphia Union, echoed the sentiment, calling it the greatest day in MLS history. Curtin hailed Messi as the greatest player the sport of soccer has ever witnessed, further emphasizing the magnitude of the moment.
Players from rival teams also expressed their eagerness to face Messi on the field. Jesus Murillo, a Colombian defender for LAFC, shared his enthusiasm, stating that as a player, he always desired to compete against the best, considering Messi to be a formidable opponent.
Meanwhile, LAFC coach Steve Cherundolo opted for humor in response to questions about Messi’s arrival, evading the subject by playfully stating that he had numerous thoughts but preferred to keep them to himself for the time being.
In another display of recognition for Messi’s arrival, Atlanta United, who faced LAFC that night, posted an intriguing image on Instagram. The image depicted Argentine player Thiago Almada alongside Messi, with a World Cup trophy symbolizing the union of two world champions now gracing the MLS.
Beyond the realm of football, Lionel Messi’s arrival garnered attention from other sports icons as well. Giannis Antetokounmpo, a star player for the Milwaukee Bucks in the NBA and a member of the ownership group of MLS’ Nashville SC, extended a warm welcome to Messi, expressing his excitement to see him in Nashville.
As Lionel Messi’s move to Inter Miami reverberates through the MLS landscape, fans, players, and officials alike are filled with anticipation, eagerly awaiting the transformational impact the legendary Argentine forward is poised to bring to football in North America.
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