Why 44 trophies are not enough for record-breaking Lionel Messi as Inter Miami boss Tata Martino delivers emphatic answer to ‘hunger’ question

The Argentine icon made more history in 2023 as he helped to inspire Leagues Cup glory a matter of weeks after completing a stunning move to the United States. That success made the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner the most decorated player to have ever kicked a ball in anger.

Messi has La Liga, Ligue 1, Champions League, Copa America and World Cup honours to his name, but there will be no letting up from the mercurial 36-year-old in pursuit of trophy No.45. Martino told reporters when asked why he is so sure that that the South American superstar will have his sights set on more major silverware in 2024: “Because he loves to compete. If you could see that [training], I wouldn't be answering this question.”

Martino has previously worked with Messi at Barcelona and with the Argentina national team and is loving his third stint coaching the all-time great, with plenty of highs and lows already taken in during a hectic few months in Florida. He added: “We have enjoyed these five months. It’s been like a roller coaster, between so many games and tournaments. We were able to enjoy a championship. For me, it’s always a pleasure to coach him.”

Alongside Inter Miami’s Leagues Cup triumph, the David Beckham co-owned franchise also reached the U.S. Open Cup final. They finished as runners-up there, with Messi nursing an untimely injury, and missed out on a place in the MLS play-offs, but attention is already shifting towards next season – with it looking like experienced Uruguayan striker Luis Suarez will be next to join the star-studded ranks at DRV PNK Stadium.