Will Messi’s Argentina Return Boost Miami’s Hopes?

The fact that Lionel Messi has seldom been allowed to play in Argentina’s national games between the Inter Miami games has become one of the most discussed football stories of the week. The 38-year-old star, normally devoted to national duty, made a surprise appearance in Miami against Atlanta and contributed a stunning performance, earning the first goal in a 4-0 win.

To enable Messi to concentrate on his important penultimate MLS match in his club, Lionel Scaloni, the manager of Argentina, decided to leave him behind in the friendly against Venezuela. The fact that the Argentine federation decided to release him is a testimony to the kind of power Messi has and the respect he commands both parties.

Inter Miami coach Javier Mascherano had earlier indicated that the presence of Messi may turn things around in the Eastern Conference where each point matters in the last couple of games. The victory has now ensured that their playoff dreams are not lost and that the locker room is now revived.

In addition to the implications for the club, Messi’s dual commitment highlights his incredibly professional nature. He will also rejoin the Argentina team in the match against Puerto Rico at Chase Stadium, his new home away from home, and it will be yet another emotional moment for the fans in Miami.

It is not merely a friendly but rather a merging of the two worlds of Messi; between the MLS revolution he brought to the United States and his love affair with Argentina. To Miami fans, it is a fantasy: their world superstar is still bringing to the club and country, and his American experience is not forgotten.