Lionel Messi’s transfer to the Major League Soccer in the United States of America has given the sport and the Argentine maestro new followers. The craze for football, or soccer (as the sport is commonly called in that area of the world) has peaked, with celebrities turning up in numbers to watch Messi in action. One of those celebrities who watched Messi in action live was NBA superstar LeBron James. In fact, in a subtle little manner, James also settled the G.O.A.T debate in football, calling the former Barcelona start the ultimate player in the sport.
“Seeing, the GOAT of soccer, Lionel Messi grace the MLS with his great, presence is a game-changer for us. His arrival not only elevates the league but also inspires a new generation of soccer fans in our country,” said the LA Lakers star.
“It takes an unparalleled dedication, work ethic, and talent to achieve what Messi has, and I have nothing but respect and admiration for him. I’m wishing all the best to him,” he added.
As for Messi, he was recently in Tokyo with the Inter Miami squad for a friendly.
Messi played 30 minutes of a friendly match in Japan on Wednesday, days after his no-show in a similar match sparked fury in Hong Kong.
The Argentine superstar came in for the tail end of a goalless draw with Vissel Kobe in Tokyo, which his team lost 4-3 on penalties.
He started on the bench for the pre-season game against J-League side Kobe, worrying 28,614 spectators at the National Stadium, who chanted “Messi, Messi” in sporadic attempts to coax out the 36-year-old.
They began to sense their good fortune early in the second half, when the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner and other substitutes began warming up.
The moment came around the hour mark, when the World Cup-winning captain replaced David Ruiz, sending the crowd into a moment of roaring frenzy that was followed by passionate cheers at his every touch.
With AFP inputs
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