Zack Steffen, the USMNT and Colorado Rapids star, recently shared his thoughts on facing Lionel Messi and Inter Miami during the 2023-2024 MLS season. Messi’s presence had a profound impact on the team, and Steffen revealed how the Argentine superstar’s introduction changed the dynamics of the game. Speaking with The Daily Mail, Steffen recounted an instance where Inter Miami was dominating a game, but Messi’s arrival completely flipped the script.
“We killed them,” Steffen said, “Then Messi came on and scored a few minutes later. Dude, the demeanor of the fans, the demeanor of the team… they were just a totally different f***ing team. It was f***ing wild.” Messi’s influence was evident throughout the season, as he bagged 20 goals and 10 assists in 19 league games for Inter Miami. His performances helped the team secure the Supporter’s Shield, but ultimately, they failed to claim the MLS Playoff trophy.
The Argentine legend, currently 37, remains one of the best players in the division and has become the highest goalscorer in Inter Miami’s history since his arrival in the summer of 2023. With 34 goals and 18 assists in 39 games, Messi played a crucial role in the team’s success, helping them win the Leagues Cup and Supporter’s Shield.
As Inter Miami prepares for the future, co-owner Jorge Mas has reassured fans that Messi will likely be part of the team beyond his current contract, which expires in 2025. Mas expressed confidence in negotiating a new deal with the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner, stating, “I fully expect that in the opening of our new stadium in 2026 and the opening of our 2026 MLS season after a trophy-laden 2025 season, that Leo Messi will be our No.10.”
Mas emphasized the team’s commitment to building a strong roster to compete in multiple competitions, including the CONCACAF Champions League, Club World Cup, and Leagues Cup. With the pressure to win, Inter Miami will likely continue to focus on maintaining their partnership with Messi, who will be 38 when his current deal expires. The partnership has been instrumental in the team’s success, and it will be essential for them to continue building on that momentum.
Steffen’s recollection of Messi’s impact on Inter Miami serves as a testament to the Argentine’s influence on the team. His introduction can turn a game around, and his presence is undoubtedly a game-changer. As Inter Miami looks to the future, they will be eager to maintain their partnership with Messi, who remains one of the most dominant players in the division.
