Lionel Messi “won’t find it easy” in MLS, according to D.C. United manager Wayne Rooney, as he joins Inter Miami. Messi was named an Inter Miami player, signing a two-year deal with a third year option.The seven-time Ballon d’Or winner will be unveiled as Miami’s newest Designated Player tonight at DRV PNK Stadium.
“He won’t find it easy here. It sounds mad, but players who come in find it’s a tough league. The travelling, the different conditions in different cities, and there’s a lot of energy and intensity on the pitch.”
In an interview with The Times, Manchester United veteran Wayne Rooney stated that many players arrive in Major League Soccer and struggle to adjust, and that Messi may be no exception.
Lionel Messi poses with David Beckham in Inter Miami jersey ahead of unveiling
After leaving Paris Saint-Germain, Messi turned down offers from Barcelona and Saudi Arabia to join Inter Miami. Former Barcelona teammates Sergio Busquets and Jordi Alba will join him at his new club. However, D.C. United manager Wayne Rooney believes the World Cup champion will struggle in the league.
“Everything is set for him. He’s got all his mates over! [Sergio] Busquets and Jordi Alba have signed for Inter Miami and maybe [Andrés] Iniesta will join them. Luis Suárez too. Messi has a coach [Inter Miami manager Tata Martino] he likes and trusts.” he added.
Lionel Messi to be presented as Inter Miami Player tomorrow
Rooney played 52 games for D.C. United during a two-year stint from 2018 to 2020 after departing United after 14 years. Before returning as manager in July, he had scored 25 goals.
Inter Miami, which David Beckham has a stake in, formally confirmed Messi’s signing on Saturday. Messi will be presented later on Sunday at Inter Miami’s DRV PNK Stadium in Fort Lauderdale, Florida.Messi will first be eligible for selection in a Leagues Cup encounter against Mexican side Cruz Azul on July 21.
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