MLS
Josef Martínez welcomes Lionel Messi to Inter Miami
The Venezuelan forward has been one of few bright spots for the team this season and he is optimistic about the impact that Messi will have in MLS.
Earlier this year Josef Martínez made the move to Inter Miami after five successful seasons with Atlanta United.
The 2018 MLS Most Valuable Player was expected to take Miami to the next level but, despite being the team’s top scorer this campaign, Martínez has not allowed them to kick on and challenge at the top of the league.
The 30-year-old will soon be linking up with Lionel Messi, who is expected to join up with his new teammates this week. Ahead of Messi’s arrival, Martínez outlined the influence that he believes the Argentine can have on Miami’s fortunes.
“It’s a big impact, it’s a big change,” Martínez said. “I don’t know what to say, but we have to move forward. I know it’s a lot of change, not only for the club, it’s also for a city, so it’s important for everyone and we have to enjoy it.”
Inter Miami are bottom of the Eastern Conference with just three wins from 21 fixtures. However they have been able to blood some talented youngsters, like 18-year-old midfielder Benja Cremaschi.
Martínez is optimistic about the benefits that Messi’s experience can bring for those players.
“He [Messi] has an impact on the country, he will definitely have an impact with his presence in this young team. We have to enjoy and try to learn from a person like him.”
But for now, it’s all hypothetical. Messi is expected to formally sign his contract this week ahead of his unveiling in a special televised event on Sunday evening.
“The day Lionel Messi is here I will be able to tell you a little bit more, at the moment we have no information. We are like you, waiting for him as well.”
With one of the greatest players of all-time set to make his first appearance for Inter Miami later this month, the football world is waiting.