Messi on MLS win: "Great year, we fought on all fronts" | OneFootball

This Saturday was an exciting day in football: Inter Miami was crowned champion of Major League Soccer 2025. After defeating the Vancouver Whitecaps 3-1, thanks to an own goal, one from Rodrigo de Paul, and another by Tadeo Allende, the Herons claimed the title for the first time in their history. And as expected, Lionel Messi played a starring role.

In what was a 1-1 tie with only a few minutes left in the match, the Argentine star appeared to work his magic and assist the world champion midfielder, in a brilliant combination that meant the 2-1 and broke the game open in their favor, unleashing the delirium of the fans who packed every stand at Chase Stadium, located in the state of Florida.

The truth is that, after the celebrations for the victory, Lionel broke his silence and spoke in an exclusive interview with Apple TV. With an unmistakable smile that revealed his mood, the number 10 confessed his feelings upon lifting another trophy. “A lot of happiness,” declared the Rosario-born star, who only needed two words to make everything clear.

Along the same lines as previously mentioned, the former Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain player expanded on his thoughts in front of the microphone and camera. “This was the goal for this year,” he stated at first. A few seconds later, he spoke as captain and said: “The team made a huge effort, with many matches, and we were up to the task all year.”

He also reflected on his arrival at the club and said: “We were able to win the League Cup as soon as we arrived. This year we competed in every competition we played in, this year we reached another final again and also played a Concachampions semifinal. Last year we finished first in the league but were eliminated in the first round.”

Messi on the retirement of Jordi Alba and Sergio Busquets

The Albiceleste star also took a few seconds to dedicate some words to his close friends and eternal teammates who retired from football: Jordi Alba and Sergio Busquets. Without hesitation, Lionel said: “I’m happy for them, to end their careers this way is very beautiful. They deserved it for what they were as players, they are two greats in history.”

Immediately after, he continued: “For them to be able to retire with this MLS title is very good, I think they are not yet aware of what they are experiencing, of retirement. Something very beautiful is coming to an end for them, something to which they dedicated their whole lives.” And to conclude, the world champion finished: “I wish them the best because they are two friends I care about very much, and I’m happy they are leaving with this title.”

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇪🇸 here.