Lionel Messi has made quite the transformation in the MLS following his arrival last summer. The World Cup winner has led the club to it’s first ever trophy while also making sure that the world has taken notice of his new club. As the Argentine gets to work in his first full season with the team, former USMNT player Herculez Gomez has surprisingly called out the player!
The football pundit made sure that his criticism resonated with the American audience. Gomez went so far as to compare Inter Miami and Messi to the Harlem Globetrotters.
It's three days too late. We see Messi and his friends play in the MLS like the Harlem Globetrotters. Guess what the opposition looks like then? The Washington Generals. Herculez Gomez via ESPN’S Futbol Americas
He also seemed annoyed at the fact that ‘prime Messi’ was nowhere to be seen in their embarrassing defeat against Monterrey. However, exactly three days later, the Argentine managed to score and assist in a 3-2 win over Sporting KC in the MLS.
"My initial reaction? Three days too late" – Pundit critical of Lionel Messi despite his 'prime Barcelona' performance in 3-2 Inter Miami win https://t.co/FBc6zIIfSx
— Sportskeeda Affiliate Program (@SportskeedaAff) April 17, 2024
Gomez pointed out the No.10’s inability to perform when it matters and even went so far as to say that he was disappointed.
Ever since Lionel Messi made the move to the USA, the No.10 has taken a liking towards other sports such as the NBA and the NFL. The Argentine has also admitted the same in an interview, with him labelling the NFL as his most favorite sport after football. Spanish UFC fighter Ilia Topuria clinched a historic title as he became the first ever Spanish champion.
Ever since Topuria became champion, he has received a hero’s welcome in Spain, with the grand ceremony at the Santiago Bernabeu just a part of it. His success has also helped him to meet Lionel Messi himself, and as per his latest comments, has invited the No.10 to his next fight. Topuria and Ariel Helwani discussed the possibility of Messi turning up to his next fight.
UFC Champion, Ilia Topuria: "Lionel Messi is the only person with Michael Jordan I'd ever ask for a photo to. We have talked about a lot of things, he congratulated me for my championship and I invited him to my next fight." @arielhelwani pic.twitter.com/d1ieI0oNDf
— All About Argentina (@AlbicelesteTalk) April 18, 2024
He (Messi) told me congratulations on your fight. When is your next fight? I invite him for my next fight. Illa Topuria via an interview in MMA Hour
Even though the Inter Miami captain didn’t promise that he’ll appear for Topuria’s fight, he did acknowledge the invitation and said that he’ll turn up if his schedule is clear.
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