‘Lionel Messi comes because Tata Martino’s there’ – Reason for Argentine’s stunning move to Inter Miami explained by MLS rival

The Argentine icon confirmed his stunning switch to MLS after reaching the end of his contract at Paris Saint-Germain. It was announced shortly before that deal was completed that fellow countryman Martino would be taking the reins at DRV PNK Stadium following the dismissal of former England Women’s manager Phil Neville.

Messi opened a door to the United States that Busquets and Alba have subsequently walked through, with the seven-time Ballon d’Or winner’s presence in America expected to see more household names tread a similar career path in transfer windows to come.

Messi has stated that he was looking for a new challenge and a fresh start outside of Europe after stints at Barca and PSG, with Curtin claiming that Martino helped to tempt the all-time great to Florida. The head coach of the Philadelphia Union has told the Miami Herald of ex-Barcelona and Argentina boss Martino: “Sometimes people forget, he was the first piece. I think Messi comes because Tata’s there. Busquets comes because Tata’s there. And Alba, as well. He was the first move in this whole thing that really transformed the club.

“He’s the leader, an incredible coach, an incredible person. When you think of Tata, you can see how his players respond and react to him almost like a father figure who is an incredible soccer mind, as well.”

Inter Miami were inspired to a historic Leagues Cup triumph within weeks of Messi’s arrival, while also reaching the final of the U.S. Open Cup and giving themselves a chance of reaching the MLS play-offs, but the 2022 World Cup winner is currently nursing a knock and will not figure in the derby date with Orlando City on Sunday.