Nine goals & yet another trophy in sight: Inside Lionel Messi’s first month at Inter Miami as Leagues Cup glory beckons

The thing you notice the most is the smile; for the past month or so, it hasn’t really left Lionel Messi’s face. You can see it at his unveiling, an event that would have been a rain-soaked disaster if held for any other player. You’ve seen it after each of the nine goals spread across six games as he’s celebrated with friends old and new. And that smile has perhaps been biggest in the moments involving his three sons, who themselves are being introduced to a whole new way of life in South Beach.

For the first time in a little while, it seems that Messi is having fun, and why wouldn’t he be? What a month it’s been in Miami.

With the Argentine leading the charge, Inter Miami have reached the Leagues Cup final, where the club will look to win its first-ever trophy. Since Messi’s arrival, their fortunes have completely turned around. They were, and still technically are, a last-place club in MLS but, with Messi, Sergio Busquets, Jordi Alba and Tata Martino now involved, Miami feel like one of the biggest clubs in the world.

It’s been a wild ride, and it’s only been a few weeks. Messi is just getting started but, in just one month, he’s already created enough stories and moments to last a lifetime.

Sign up here for MLS Season Pass through Apple TV and watch every MLS match, including Lionel Messi’s Inter Miami!