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David Beckham names club that got him ‘worried’ in Lionel Messi bid & reveals whether Argentine icon has to call him ‘boss’ at Inter Miami.
David Beckham has acknowledged that there was a point where Barcelona’s interest in Lionel Messi had him concerned as Inter Miami vigorously pursued the Argentine icon.
Messi became available in the summer of 2023, with his contract at Paris Saint-Germain nearing its end, making him a free agent. Ultimately, Messi chose to join MLS, but not before Barcelona made a substantial effort to bring him back to his spiritual home in Catalunya, causing some apprehension for Beckham and Inter Miami.
Inter Miami co-owner Beckham has told The Times of winning the race for Messi’s signature: “We always knew there would be competition. The time I got a bit worried was when Barcelona showed interest. The club obviously pulls on his heartstrings and he never really got to say the goodbye he deserved there.
That was the only time I started to worry he might go somewhere else. But we did everything possible — me, Jorge and Jose [Mas]. And then getting that phone call that he’s decided to come to us… It still gives me goose bumps.
I promised the fans and people of Miami that I wanted to bring some of the best players in the world. I am sure every owner says that but, from day one, he was the dream player I wanted to bring to Miami. I see him in our kit, I watch him train and play, and I can’t believe that we have Lionel Messi in our club.”
Messi wasted no time making his mark upon arriving in the United States, leading Inter Miami to a historic victory in the League Cup. However, beyond his immediate impact on the pitch, David Beckham envisions Messi leaving a lasting legacy with his time at the club.
The Manchester United legend, who made his own move to America when joining the LA Galaxy in 2007, added: “The same as with me, I see Leo’s involvement in the league a lot longer than his playing time. We are very keen to keep him to help attract players and be involved with the football development of the club and football in the US. I think that will be a lot of fun for him as it’s been for me.”
In 2024, Lionel Messi is anticipating a more enjoyable experience as Inter Miami sets its sights on major silverware. Despite being an eight-time Ballon d’Or winner, Messi won’t be subjected to the same formalities expected of others. When asked if the football legend has to address him as “boss,” David Beckham responded, “Some of them call me that. But I don’t make any demands of Leo, and I don’t need to.”
Messi’s last competitive appearance in 2023 was in Argentina’s thrilling 2026 World Cup qualifying victory over Brazil at the Maracana. His return to the pitch is scheduled for Inter Miami’s pre-season ahead of the 2024 MLS campaign, with friendly matches potentially lined up against teams like Newell’s Old Boys and Cristiano Ronaldo’s Al-Nassr.