From Alaska to Austin, MLS stars are opening up about the surreal experience of evolving from childhood fans to on-field rivals of Lionel Messi and Inter Miami’s "Barcelona quartet". USMNT forward Brandon Vazquez and Atlético Madrid’s Obed Vargas shared how lining up against their idols felt like a "FIFA console dream" come to life - and how they had to overcome the "out-of-body experience" to actually beat them.
Barcelona wonderkid Lamine Yamal has been informed of what needs to happen in order for him to become a Ballon d’Or contender in 2026, while Ruud Gullit has told GOAL why a ninth triumph for Argentine GOAT Lionel Messi cannot be ruled out. The title of best player on the planet will likely be bestowed upon a superstar performer that illuminates this summer’s World Cup.
Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi would be “very complementary” in the same team, Rene Meulensteen has told GOAL, with CR7 being backed for a move to MLS Cup winners Inter Miami if he lands the Saudi Pro League title with Al-Nassr. The Portuguese GOAT is closing in on another crown in the Middle East, which could lead to him exploring future options elsewhere.
Obed Vargas has opened up about his memorable on-field confrontation with Lionel Messi, admitting he was overwhelmed by the absurdity of being targeted by his childhood idol. The former Seattle Sounders midfielder explained that his laughter during the 2025 Leagues Cup clash was a product of disbelief rather than a lack of respect.
Sir David Beckham has made history by becoming Britain’s first billionaire sportsman following the release of the 2026 Sunday Times Rich List. Alongside his wife Victoria, the Manchester United legend has seen his net worth soar to record levels, driven by lucrative brand endorsements and his successful ownership stake in MLS side Inter Miami.
Lionel Messi inspired Inter Miami to a dramatic comeback victory against FC Cincinnati, yet he was controversially denied a 61st career hat-trick by Major League Soccer officials. Despite seemingly finding the net three times during the match, a technical ruling regarding a late deflection saw the league credit the decisive third strike as an own goal instead.
Lionel Messi is set to make a league record $28.3 million this year, more than all but two MLS clubs' total payroll, the MLSPA revealed in its release of salary data Tuesday afternoon. The Inter Miami star's intake has increased nearly 40 percent since last year. Other top earners included LAFC's Son Heung-Min, Miami's Rodrigo De Paul, and San Diego's Chucky Lozano.
Lionel Messi’s Inter Miami team-mate Sergio Reguilon is preparing to pay a massive $135,000 to fly his beloved pet dog to Florida on a private jet. The former Tottenham Hotspur and Real Madrid defender, who joined the 2025 MLS champions in January, is determined to reunite with his furry companion in the United States, valuing his pet above all else.
Former France defender Frank Leboeuf has harshly criticised Cristiano Ronaldo, insisting that an impending Saudi Pro League title with Al-Nassr cannot match Lionel Messi's transformative impact at Inter Miami. The pundit claims heavy club investments, rather than individual brilliance, are truly responsible for any Middle Eastern silverware the Portuguese veteran secures.
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Lionel Messi has thrown his weight behind former team-mate Neymar, insisting the Santos superstar "deserves" to be part of Brazil's World Cup squad despite his recent struggles with injury. The Inter Miami captain described his close friend as a "very special" talent who remains one of the finest players on the planet.
Lionel Messi has shared an emotional message of congratulations after watching his former club Barcelona secure back-to-back La Liga titles in historic fashion. The Argentine legend was among the first to react as the Blaugrana dismantled Real Madrid at the Spotify Camp Nou to move into an unassailable lead at the top of the table.
Nicolas Tagliafico has revealed that Argentina are determined to provide Lionel Messi with the ultimate farewell by defending their crown at the 2026 World Cup. The defender insists that while "nobody will be ready" for the day the captain eventually retires, the squad is fully committed to supporting their leader until the very end.
Lionel Messi continues to rewrite the record books in North America, producing a masterclass to lead Inter Miami to a 4-2 victory over Toronto FC. The Argentine icon was at the heart of everything once again, ensuring the capacity crowd at BMO Field witnessed a historic piece of individual brilliance.
Lionel Messi and Rodrigo De Paul put on a clinic as Inter Miami brushed aside Toronto FC in a 4-2 victory on Saturday. The Argentine icon used the trip to Canada to rewrite the record books yet again, prompting his manager to demand more respect for a player who remains in a league of his own.
Lionel Messi has officially weighed in on the meteoric rise of Lamine Yamal, naming the Barcelona teenager as his natural successor. The eight-time Ballon d'Or winner believes the La Masia graduate is already operating at a level that puts him above the rest of the pack in world football.
Antonio Cassano has revealed Lionel Messi's retirement timeline after meeting the Argentina icon in Florida. Despite approaching his 39th birthday, the Inter Miami superstar appears to have no immediate intention of hanging up his boots as he eyes further success in MLS and potentially on the international stage.
Luis Suarez has opened up on his decision to sign a contract extension with Inter Miami, revealing that his "burning desire" to compete remains as strong as ever despite being 39 years old. The Uruguayan legend, who remains a focal point of the Herons' attack alongside Lionel Messi, also addressed the tactical shifts that saw him briefly lose his starting spot under former coach Javier Mascherano.
Inter Miami CF
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