Inter Miami coach Gerardo “Tata” Martino recognizes the importance of finding a system that will allow his team to extract the best performance from Lionel Messi in his first full season in Major League Soccer. Despite missing out on the MLS playoffs, Inter Miami did celebrate their first-ever trophy, the Leagues Cup, after Messi’s arrival in July. Martino explained to ESPN, “We have to try to find ways of playing where the versions, especially in this case of Leo, can be the best, without trying to improve him individually.” However, he acknowledged that their predictable moves and slow ball circulation made it easier for opponents to neutralize their attacks.
Martino believes that the key lies in assembling a team that complements Messi’s skillset and allows for an even stronger version of the team to emerge. He emphasized the importance of not relying solely on Messi as the focal point of the team, but rather leveraging the abilities of all the players to create a more unpredictable and dynamic playing style. Martino admitted that achieving this would be no easy task, but he remains focused on finding the right approach to surround Messi and avoid giving away too many hints about their tactics to opponents.
Messi’s arrival at Inter Miami has undoubtedly made a significant impact. His stature as an eight-time Ballon d’Or winner and the leader of Argentina’s World Cup-winning team has made him the biggest drawing card in the league. Coaches, even those on opposing teams, eagerly anticipate facing Inter Miami, recognizing the excitement and challenge of playing against the best player in the game. Toronto coach John Herdman expressed his enthusiasm, stating, “I mean, it’s a really exciting time for MLS to have the best player, in my opinion, who ever played the game in this league.”
While the spotlight often shines brightest on Messi, Inter Miami has also made significant moves to strengthen their attack and provide additional support for their star player. The signing of Messi’s former Barcelona teammate, Luis Suárez, adds another layer of talent and familiarity to the team. By bolstering their roster with experienced and skilled players, Inter Miami aims to create a well-rounded and formidable squad that can augment Messi’s contributions.
Inter Miami’s preseason preparations include a matchup against the El Salvador men’s national team on January 19. This game will offer early insights into how the team is adapting and whether Martino’s efforts to optimize Messi’s performance have been successful. As with any team that relies heavily on a star player, finding the right balance between individual brilliance and collective cohesion is crucial for Inter Miami’s overall success in the upcoming season.
Inter Miami faces the challenge of harnessing Lionel Messi’s immense talent to create a team that can compete at the highest level. Coach Gerardo Martino understands the need to build a system that maximizes Messi’s potential while also ensuring that the team as a whole remains unpredictable and cohesive. By surrounding Messi with a strong supporting cast, Inter Miami aims to create a version of the team that is even better than before. As the league’s biggest drawing card, Messi brings excitement and attention to Major League Soccer, setting high expectations for Inter Miami’s performance in the upcoming season.
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