Lionel Messi’s arrival in Minnesota with Inter Miami has ignited a frenzy of anticipation for their upcoming match against Minnesota United. The game, slated for May 10th at 4:30 p.m. ET, marks a significant milestone as Messi’s inaugural appearance in the state and against the club since his high-profile transfer to Inter Miami in July 2023. The soccer world is abuzz with excitement, as this encounter pits two of Major League Soccer’s (MLS) top contenders against each other, promising a thrilling spectacle for fans and neutrals alike.
Messi’s presence is undoubtedly the biggest draw, as the Argentine maestro is widely regarded as one of the greatest footballers of all time. His arrival in Miami has transformed the club’s fortunes and ignited a new wave of interest in MLS. The fact that Messi himself has seemingly confirmed his intention to play through his matchday Instagram story has only amplified the buzz surrounding the game.
Minnesota United, however, are no pushovers. They currently sit second in the MLS Western Conference, demonstrating their strength and consistency this season. This clash against Inter Miami presents them with a golden opportunity to test their mettle against a team boasting arguably the best player in the world and to further solidify their position among the league’s elite.
Inter Miami, despite being fourth in the Eastern Conference, are a force to be reckoned with. Their recent triumph in the MLS Supporters’ Shield last season underscores their pedigree and ambition. They are determined to continue their dominance and add more silverware to their trophy cabinet.
The game is accessible to fans across the globe through MLS Season Pass on Apple TV, ensuring that no one misses out on this highly anticipated showdown. However, the official confirmation of Messi’s participation will only come when Inter Miami unveils its starting lineup an hour before the match, adding an element of suspense to the proceedings.
One notable absence for Inter Miami will be Luis Suarez, Messi’s longtime teammate and close friend. The Uruguayan star has not traveled with the team to Minnesota due to personal reasons. Suarez’s absence will undoubtedly be felt, as his partnership with Messi has been a key component of Inter Miami’s attacking prowess. In their recent 4-1 victory against the New York Red Bulls on May 3, Messi scored a goal, while Suarez contributed a goal and an assist, highlighting their devastating combination.
That victory against the Red Bulls served as a crucial bounce-back performance for Inter Miami, who had previously endured a frustrating spell of three consecutive losses – their first such streak since Messi joined the club. This period included elimination from the Concacaf Champions Cup semifinals at the hands of Vancouver and a surprising home defeat to FC Dallas. Inter Miami will be keen to demonstrate that their recent blip was just a temporary setback and that they are back on track to compete for major honors.
Leading Inter Miami from the sidelines is coach Javier Mascherano, a familiar face to Messi, Suarez, Sergio Busquets, and Jordi Alba. Mascherano shared the pitch with these Inter Miami stars during his time at FC Barcelona, fostering a strong bond and understanding that translates onto the field. His tactical acumen and familiarity with the players make him a valuable asset for Inter Miami.
Minnesota United, under the guidance of second-year coach Eric Ramsay, are enjoying a strong start to the season. Ramsay, a former assistant coach at Manchester United, has implemented a system that maximizes the team’s strengths. They currently hold second place in the Western Conference with 19 points, accumulated from five wins, two losses, and four draws. While they trail Vancouver (26 points), they are determined to close the gap and challenge for the top spot.
Minnesota’s attacking threat is spearheaded by forward Tani Oluwasey, who leads the team with five goals. Designated Player Joaquín Pereyra is the creative force in midfield, topping the assists chart with four. The team’s balance and tactical flexibility make them a formidable opponent for any team in the league.
The clash between Minnesota United and Inter Miami promises to be a captivating encounter. It is a battle between a team on the rise and a team with established stars. While Messi’s presence undoubtedly adds glamour and intrigue to the game, Minnesota United will be eager to prove that they can compete with the best and emerge victorious on their home turf. The game will be a test of tactics, skill, and determination, and the outcome is far from certain. Whether Messi can inspire Inter Miami to another victory or Minnesota United can secure a statement win remains to be seen, but one thing is for sure: soccer fans in Minnesota and around the world are in for a treat. The atmosphere is certain to be electric, and the game promises to be a memorable occasion for all involved.
