Inter Miami forward Lionel Messi admits he moved to ‘a lesser league’ in MLS but promises 'maximum' commitment ahead of Argentina’s Copa America defense

In an interview with StarPlus.com, the Argentine spoke about his future with the national team, while admitting that his playing level could be effected by the MLS schedule and the caliber of the competition. At age 36, though, he feels he the opportunity best suits both he and his family.

The Argentine has taken MLS by storm since arriving to the league in July, winning the inaugural Leagues Cup and the Golden Boot of the tournament. Despite MLS not being on the level of Barcelona or PSG, it's still a league that has top talent and is growing with the world's game. Top exports are being shipped off to Europe while the league's Apple TV deal sheds visibility on all the team's competing in it. Now, however, he promises to still play at a high level for his country ahead of the 2024 Copa America.

The mercurial Argentine said: "I said it several times and it is a reality: I will always try to compete to the maximum and I am the first to know when I can be there and when I can't. I am also aware that I went to a lesser league, but a lot happens because of the personal and the way one faces it and competes. As long as I feel that I'm fine and I can continue contributing, I'm going to do it [represent the national team]."

The Argentine star won't take the pitch for Inter Miami again in 2023. Currently in offseason mode, the Herons are not set to return until the new year, with their first match of 2024 being a friendly against the El Salvador national team.