Inter Miami‘s Tadeo Allende highlighted Lionel Messi’s ability to maintain calm and confidence within the team during turbulent times, crediting the star’s leadership for their improved performances. Speaking ahead of the MLS 2026 season, Allende emphasized how Messi’s example inspired the squad throughout their campaign.
In an interview with GOAL, Allende described Messi as a commanding presence whose leadership motivates the team, particularly when faced with pressure. He explained that messages from Messi, delivered calmly, carry significant weight due to his experience, helping players stay focused on the pitch.
“Messi has a very strong personality. It shows on the field. His leadership pushes you forward all the time. And in chaotic moments, he delivered calm messages – and they carry weight because of who they come from. That helped us stay composed while playing. I had an up-and-down season, but in the last few months, I found consistency. I felt comfortable, connected with everything, and scoring goals helped me settle into a really good rhythm.” – Tadeo Allende, Inter Miami player
Overcoming Setbacks to Secure Historic MLS Success
The 2025 season proved challenging for Inter Miami, with the squad facing several setbacks, including the disappointment of losing the Leagues Cup. Despite these hurdles, the team managed to rally and close the year by winning their first-ever MLS Cup, marking a milestone for the club.
Allende reflected on the resilience shown by the team, praising their professionalism and growing consistency, particularly in the latter half of the season, which enabled them to achieve their goals.
“It was a tough year with several setbacks that were hard to recover from, especially losing the Leagues Cup. But we were always close to reaching our goals – making a final, reaching a Champions Cup semifinal. The second half of the season was more solid from us as a group, in terms of professionalism and consistency. We got the results we needed and were able to go all the way and win the league in exceptional fashion.” – Tadeo Allende, Inter Miami player
Since joining Inter Miami in 2023 after finishing his contract with PSG, Lionel Messi has led the club to three trophies in three seasons, firmly establishing their status within Major League Soccer.
Messi’s Full Recovery Sets Stage for MLS 2026 Opening Match
Earlier in the month, Lionel Messi suffered a hamstring injury, forcing the postponement of a friendly match in Puerto Rico. However, Inter Miami assistant coach Javier Mascherano confirmed that Messi has fully recovered and will be ready to start the 2026 MLS season opener against LAFC.
“Messi is fine; he’s been training at the same level as the rest of the team all week. He’s been doing well and has had very positive feelings. So, he’s going away well prepared, just like the rest of the team.” – Javier Mascherano, Inter Miami assistant coach
Messi’s impact during the 2026 season has continued to be extraordinary, finishing as MLS’s top scorer and leading in assists, which earned him the league’s Most Valuable Player award for the second consecutive year.
