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News, Blog and GuidesThe Venezuelan forward has been one of few bright spots for the team this season and he is optimistic about the impact that Messi will have in MLS.
William GittinsWillGittUpdate: Jul 12th, 2023 17:01 EDT
MEGAN BRIGGSAFP
Earlier this year Josef Martínez made the move to Inter Miami after five successful seasons with Atlanta United.
The 2018 MLS Most Valuable Player was expected to take Miami to the next level but, despite being the team’s top scorer this campaign, Martínez has not allowed them to kick on and challenge at the top of the league.
The 30-year-old will soon be linking up with Lionel Messi, who is expected to join up with his new teammates this week. Ahead of Messi’s arrival, Martínez outlined the influence that he believes the Argentine can have on Miami’s fortunes.
“It’s a big impact, it’s a big change,” Martínez said. “I don’t know what to say, but we have to move forward. I know it’s a lot of change, not only for the club, it’s also for a city, so it’s important for everyone and we have to enjoy it.”
🎥 🎤 The media presence at today’s training session was tenfold what it normally is.Entry to practice required a check-in, metal detection process, bag check, and distributed wristband.“It’s a big change,” Josef Martinez said with a smile.#InterMiamiCF #Messi pic.twitter.com/VoqVaQCvl8
— Franco Panizo (@FrancoPanizo) July 12, 2023
Inter Miami are bottom of the Eastern Conference with just three wins from 21 fixtures. However they have been able to blood some talented youngsters, like 18-year-old midfielder Benja Cremaschi.
Martínez is optimistic about the benefits that Messi’s experience can bring for those players.
“He [Messi] has an impact on the country, he will definitely have an impact with his presence in this young team. We have to enjoy and try to learn from a person like him.”
But for now, it’s all hypothetical. Messi is expected to formally sign his contract this week ahead of his unveiling in a special televised event on Sunday evening.
