‘Responsibility to be better’ – Lionel Messi admission at Inter Miami as free-scoring MLS Cup hopefuls struggle to plug leaks in defence

The Herons were tipped by many to stake a serious claim for MLS Cup glory before a ball was kicked in 2024, and Tata Martino’s side are living up to the hype. With eight-time Ballon d’Or winner Messi in dazzling form, as more records are broken, the Florida-based outfit appear ready to compete for major honours.

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Unsurprisingly, with the likes of Messi and Luis Suarez at their disposal, Inter Miami have been full of goals – with 35 recorded through 13 games. They have, however, conceded 20 and had to recover from falling 2-0 down before battling their way to an impressive comeback win in Montreal last time out.

Negri told reporters after that contest when asked if Messi has a calming influence on those around him, and the need for others to match the Argentine’s high standards: “Yes, it gives us tranquillity to count with players like that on the attack. But we also have to have the responsibility to be better at the back ... luckily we have found that amount of goals and won.”

Inter Miami have kept just two clean sheets in all competitions this season, with the last of those coming against Orlando City on March 2. Martino’s side have taken in 14 games without a shutout since then, but will be facing Florida neighbours again in their next fixture on Wednesday.