Every Lionel Messi game for Inter Miami is 'like a final' for opponents, says team-mate Marcelo "Chelo" Weigandt

The eight-time Ballon d’Or winner remains the biggest draw in MLS, with fans in the United States – including plenty of famous ones – eager to catch a glimpse of him in live action. Many domestic rivals are also desperate to test themselves against one of the all-time greats.

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Messi continues to deliver under that weight of expectation – being named MLS Player of the Month for April – but Weigandt admits that each passing fixture is a serious challenge for the Herons. The Argentine defender has said ahead of a home date with the New York Red Bulls on Saturday: “We expect them to play the same intense way. When we have Leo, every team plays against us like it were a final. And we have to play every game like it's a final to try if we want to achieve what we aspire to. But the team looks good, we're happy and we work hard throughout the week.”

Weigandt, who has joined Inter Miami on an initial loan from Boca Juniors, added on working alongside an illustrious countryman in Florida: “Honestly it's been extraordinary, Leo is very humble and simple. He's a great person, and compliments the team well. He talks to us to inspire us. It's something so nice, that someone so important notices every detail of the group and the club, he makes us more professional. He's taught me to have my feet on the ground. He's a person you can talk to, and get advice from. He helps. One is intimidated at first, has shame, but in the day-to-day, it's incredible.”

Messi’s exploits this season have helped Inter Miami to the top of the Eastern Conference, as they look to chase down MLS Cup glory. The mercurial South American has registered 11 goals through just 10 appearances in all competitions.