NBA superstar LeBron James believes the arrival of “GOAT” Lionel Messi in MLS has had a “game-changing” impact for the United States as a whole.
The sports icon made sure to attend Messi’s Miami debut against Cruz Azul in the Leagues Cup in July 2023. James had an unforgettable moment in the stands when Messi scored a masterful free kick in the last minute of injury time to secure a memorable victory for the Herons. After the match, the basketball legend approached Messi and hugged the record Ballon d’Or winner to warmly welcome him to the United States.
The Lakers player seems to have taken a keen interest in football since the arrival of Messi and insisted that the arrival of the 2022 World Cup winner will be instrumental in getting new generation fans into the game. this sport.
Lebron validates Messi
“ Seeing Messi, the greatest football player, grace MLS with his presence is a complete game changer for us”, he said in a conversation with ESPN’s Dave McMenamin. “ His arrival not only elevates the league, it also inspires a new generation of football fans in our country. It takes unmatched dedication, work ethic and talent to achieve what Messi has done, and I have nothing but respect and admiration for him. I wish him the best. »
Although Messi is respected and admired around the world by his millions of fans, he faced the wrath of disgruntled fans in the Far East after missing Inter Miami’s friendly in Hong Kong on Sunday. The all-time great looked to Japan for his next assignment and blamed “bad luck” for missing the friendly due to injury.
Messi does not know if he will be fit enough to take part in the match against Vissel Kobe on Wednesday. This is the last friendly match of an international tour which took him from El Salvador to Japan via the Middle East. Upon their return to the United States, they will play another friendly match against Newell’s Old Boys, Messi’s first club, before starting the 2024 MLS campaign at home against Real Salt Lake on February 21.
