June 09, (THEWILL) – Inter Miami’s official Instagram account has witnessed an unprecedented surge in popularity, skyrocketing from one million to 6.5 million followers since the reality of Lionel Messi’s move to Major League Soccer was confirmed.
This remarkable achievement represents a rapid multiplication of the team’s accumulated follower count over the past five years, underscoring the profound impact of the “Messi effect”. Yet, the news of Messi joining Inter Miami reverberated far beyond the team’s fanbase. It sent shockwaves throughout the MLS, indicating a potential game-changing moment for football in both the United States and Canada.
The League itself, recognising the significance of this development, tweeted: “The GOAT (greatest of all time) is coming. Millions of MLS fans all over the world welcome you, Leo.” The league’s commissioner, Don Garber, expressed his excitement on Twitter, stressing that this is bound to be an exhilarating experience.
Meanwhile, Jim Curtin, head coach of the Philadelphia Union, deemed this momentous occasion as likely the greatest day in MLS history. He hailed Messi as the best player ever in the sport of soccer while Jesus Murillo, LAFC’s Colombian defender, also voiced his enthusiasm, eagerly anticipating the opportunity to face Messi as an opponent. On the other hand, LAFC coach, Steve Cherundolo, playfully evaded questions about Messi’s arrival, teasing that he had numerous thoughts, but preferred to keep them to himself for now.
As Messi’s arrival gained traction, it garnered attention from beyond the football world. Giannis Antetokounmpo, the star player of the Milwaukee Bucks and a member of the ownership group of MLS’ Nashville SC, extended a warm welcome to Messi, expressing his anticipation of their encounter in Nashville.
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
