Following Inter Miami’s 3-1 win over Nashville SC in Game 1 of the MLS Cup Playoffs, Argentine midfielder Rodrigo De Paul - Messi’s longtime national team teammate - praised the captain’s influence and form. He added that Messi’s decision to remain with the Herons beyond this season has given the squad an extra spark heading into the postseason.

Inter Miami co-owner David Beckham has penned a heartfelt message for Lionel Messi after the Argentine GOAT shut down speculation about his future by signing a new three-year contract with the MLS outfit. The forward has shown no signs of slowing down despite turning 38 in June and has already racked up a sensational 39 goals in 44 matches while setting up 19 more to inspire the Herons to an assured playoff spot.

Lionel Messi scored two goals, and Inter Miami took advantage of an admittedly sloppy Nashville SC to earn a 3-1 win and take a 1-0 lead in the first round of their MLS playoff series. The Argentine was short of his best, but opportunistic at the right moments, and the Herons' only real gripe can be that they didn't keep a clean sheet in their pursuit of an evasive MLS Cup.

Lionel Messi this week signed a three-year extension to stay with Inter Miami through 2028, and the Argentine says a major factor was the lifestyle in Florida. In addition to his family enjoying living in Miami, Messi told NBC Nightly News that he evaluated his mental and physical health and ultimately, the decision to remain in MLS was "easy."

Lionel Messi has been told the one reason why eternal rival Cristiano Ronaldo is the GOAT, with Danny Simpson explaining that to GOAL during an exclusive interview. Premier League title winner Simpson worked with CR7 at Manchester United and considers him to boast unique qualities that separate him from any other player in history - including Argentine icon Messi.