Messi shoots Inter Miami’s followers to 4.5m in 12hrs

Inter Miami’s official social media account experienced an
extraordinary surge, from 2.1 to 4.5 million followers in 12 hours, more than
doubling its follower count accumulated over the previous five years.

However, the impact of the ‘Lionel Messi effect’ extends
beyond Inter Miami. The announcement of Messi joining the team sent shockwaves
throughout Major League Soccer (MLS), signifying a potential game-changing
moment for football in the United States and Canada.

The goat (greatest of all time) is coming,” MLS tweeted.

“Millions of MLS fans all over the world welcome you, Leo.”

Among those highly interested in Messi’s arrival in MLS was
the league’s commissioner, Don Garber, who took to Twitter to stress that “This
should be fun.”

According to Jim Curtin, head coach of the Philadelphia
Union, it was likely the greatest day in MLS history.

“It’s the best player that the sport of soccer has ever had,
in my opinion,” he noted.

LAFC’s Colombian defender, Jesus Murillo, expressed
enthusiasm about facing Messi as an opponent, stating that as a player, he
always wanted to compete against the best.

Meanwhile, LAFC coach Steve Cherundolo avoided answering
questions about Messi’s arrival, humorously stating that he had many thoughts
but preferred not to share them at the moment.

Atlanta United, who faced LAFC that night, posted an image
on Instagram featuring Argentine player Thiago Almada alongside Messi and a
World Cup trophy, symbolizing two world champions now in MLS.

Messi’s arrival received recognition beyond the football world
as well. Milwaukee Bucks star Giannis

Antetokounmpo, who is a member of the ownership group of
MLS’ Nashville SC, wrote, “Welcome to MLS Messi! See you in Nashville.”