Inter Miami kicked off the 29th season of MLS with a 2-0 victory over Real Salt Lake, marking the first goal of the season by Robert Taylor in the 39th minute, followed by Diego Gómez’s insurance score in the 83rd minute. Lionel Messi, in his first full season with Inter Miami, showcased his brilliance, setting up Taylor’s goal with a precise pass. Despite only appearing in six MLS matches last season due to injuries, Messi’s impact was evident with 11 goals in 14 total matches and leading Inter Miami to a Leagues Cup championship. His signing last summer for a hefty contract of around $150 million stunned the soccer world.
The excitement around Messi hasn’t waned, evident in the long lines for fans purchasing his jersey, which was the top-seller in MLS last year. His presence elevates Inter Miami’s stature both domestically and internationally, with former Barcelona teammates Luis Suarez, Sergio Busquets, and Jordi Alba also joining the club. Despite a less than stellar preseason, Inter Miami dominated the first half against Real Salt Lake, showcasing their potential as contenders.
FanDuel Sportsbook considers Inter Miami as favorites across various fronts, including winning the MLS Cup and Messi and Suarez as top contenders for the Golden Boot. Despite the optimism, coach Gerardo “Tata” Martino remains cautious, emphasizing the need for consistency throughout the season. Inter Miami’s playoff record has been disappointing so far, but the addition of Messi has raised expectations significantly.
Messi’s influence extends beyond the pitch, as evidenced by the success of “Messi’s World Cup: The Rise of a Legend” on Apple TV, which is part of a lucrative deal with MLS. Apple’s senior vice president, Eddy Cue, expressed surprise at the success of Messi’s first season in MLS and expects continued growth in viewership and engagement. As Messi embarks on his second season with Inter Miami, the buzz and anticipation surrounding him continue to grow, with fans eagerly awaiting more magical moments on the field.
