What Surprising Insights Did Messi Share About Beckham’s Role at Inter Miami?

Lionel Messi has shared captivating insights into his relationship with David Beckham, revealing the unexpected aspects of the football icon's involvement at Inter Miami. In recent interviews, Messi described Beckham, the club’s co-owner, as a person of humility and approachability, significantly impacting the team’s culture.

Messi, who joined Inter Miami in 2023, described Beckham as a "spectacular person," reflecting on their connection since Messi's arrival in Florida. The former Barcelona star noted, "It is strange to see him on the other side of football and not as a player any more, beyond what he is today and what he represents for the club." This captures the essence of Beckham’s transition from player to owner and his ongoing presence on the training pitch.

Beckham's hands-on approach has not gone unnoticed. Messi remarked that Beckham often participates in training sessions, showcasing his desire to remain close to the game. This commitment appears to resonate with the younger players, who benefit from Beckham’s extensive knowledge and experience. Messi acknowledged that despite Beckham's role as a co-owner, he still possesses the instincts of a player, wanting to get involved alongside the team.

Beckham, for his part, has faced numerous challenges as a club co-owner. In a candid conversation, he described the long journey of establishing Inter Miami and the difficulties of building a club from the ground up. He noted it as "the biggest challenge" but also the most rewarding, especially following Messi’s signing. This pivotal signing has transformed the club exponentially. Beckham remarked, "Everything has changed for us. We’ve quadrupled everything on one signing—the difference is incredible," highlighting Messi’s instant influence on both the sport and the overall perception of the franchise.

In more personal reflections, Messi expressed surprise at Beckham's humble nature, commenting on how he expected more distance between them due to Beckham's star status. Instead, he found a kinship that transcended the barriers of fame. This mutual respect and camaraderie apparently extends beyond the pitch, with the two stars frequently communicating outside of training sessions.

As Inter Miami witnesses a surge in both fan interest and media attention following Messi's arrival, Beckham's vision of growing soccer's popularity in the United States appears to be gaining traction. The infusion of Messi not only enhances the team's performance but also the entire soccer culture in Miami, drawing in audiences that may never have engaged with the sport before.

This partnership of two football giants encapsulates the evolution of the football landscape in the U.S. The interplay between their distinct yet complementary roles promises not just to uplift Inter Miami, but potentially lay the groundwork for a broader global interest in American soccer. As Beckham sums up, the aim is to build a sustainable future for the sport in the country, starting from grassroots initiatives.

As Messi continues to inspire younger players on and off the field, it raises the question: How will their evolving relationship shape the future of soccer in the United States? Fans are encouraged to share their thoughts on this dynamic at Inter Miami.

• David Beckham
• Inter Miami CF
• Lionel Messi