‘Little things he does like that’: Inter Miami player reveals how Lionel Messi treats his teammates

Lionel Messi is arguably one of the greatest players ever to play the sport. The Argentine footballer has been preparing for a new season of MLS after winning the Leagues Cup with David Beckham's co-owned side earlier in 2023. The player has played a key role in making soccer more famous in the US ever since he left PSG to join Inter Miami.

3 things you need to know 

• Inter Miami’s season starts in February 
• Lionel Messi was re-united with Jordi Alba and Sergio Busquets in Inter Miami 
• Recently, Luis Suarez signed for Inter Miami 

Ian Fray made a huge statement regarding Lionel Messi

Ian Fray, Lionel Messi's teammate at Inter Miami, has heaped admiration on the Argentine legend for his off-field attributes. Messi has had a big influence on his new squad since joining the Herons this summer, when his contract with Paris Saint-Germain expired. Messi has demonstrated his influence with 11 goals and five assists in 14 outings across a variety of tournaments.

Ian Fray has praised Messi's influence off the pitch, even though he hasn't yet played with him for Inter Miami. The 21-year-old defender told Fox Sports (via Goal): 

“That’s what people should really know about Messi, the little things he does like that. Of course, the whole world gets to see the type of player he is and the things he can do with the ball at his feet. But he understands there is a lot more than that, and it is obvious he cares about his team-mates.”

In addition, he shared his thoughts on working with seasoned players like Luis Suarez, Messi, and Sergio Busquets:  

"I feel fortunate to be part of it, to be here at such an amazing time for the club and for American soccer, and to be able to see and train with and learn from (Lionel Messi) and these other great players."

“But at the same time, I haven’t had the full experience yet. I’ve watched, but I haven’t played alongside him, on the same team, in a proper game. That’s what I have to look forward to. And that’s what drives me now.”

Messi has won 10 La Liga championships, eight Ballon d'Or awards, and four UEFA Champions League crowns. His remarkable total of 715 goals in his senior club career includes 672 goals scored when he was a member of Barcelona. 

When will Lionel Messi return to action?

In January 2024, Inter Miami is scheduled to play a friendly match against Al Hilal at the Kingdom Arena, with the kickoff set for 11:30 pm. This will be followed by another friendly match against Al-Nassr at the same venue on February 1st. Moving on to February 7th, Inter Miami will face off against Vissel Kobe at the New Japan National Stadium, with the timing yet to be announced. The team will then play a friendly match against Newell's Old Boys at DRV PNK Stadium on February 16th, with the timing to be determined.