Messi scored only one goal in 6 friendly matches played by Inter Miami (Reuters)

Former Barcelona and Arsenal star Thierry Henry believes that the lack of talent in the American Football League is the reason for the suffering of Argentine star Lionel Messi with his team, Inter Miami.

The statement comes after Inter Miami's lackluster performance in the preparatory matches for the new season.

Inter Miami played 6 preparatory matches for the new season, during which it achieved only one victory, over Hong Kong with a score of 4-1, but the team also suffered 3 defeats, the most notable of which was a heavy loss to Al-Nassr of Saudi Arabia with a score of 6-0.

These mixed results indicate that the team needs more work and harmony before the start of the season.

Messi faced difficulties in adapting to the American Football League, as he scored only one goal in 6 matches, while he suffered a muscle injury that hindered his performance.

Henry said in a statement reported by the Sprouts Kida network that Messi can contribute on the field regardless of the level of competition. However, the former French international believes that “The Flea” needs other senior players to display his best levels.

However, Henry, who previously played in the American League, did not place the blame entirely on the American League.

He said such instances of star players struggling to achieve consistency could happen anywhere in the world.

He added: "I mean Leo (Messi) is unstoppable wherever he goes. He will score goals, and that has nothing to do with the league."

He added: “There is no doubt that the best players in the world are often active in Europe, and this constitutes a highly competitive environment that contributes to the development of their skills and abilities, but that does not mean that other leagues - such as the American League - do not have talented players capable of making a difference. Over time, “These leagues will grow and develop and we will find more talent competing at the highest level.”

However, the eight-time Ballon d'Or winner still has one friendly match left to show his best form.

Miami is scheduled to face Newell's Old Boys, the Argentine team where Messi grew up, in its final match in the final match of the preparatory round, next Thursday.

Despite his current struggles at Inter Miami, Messi helped his new team win the 2023 League Cup.

In his short period with the club last season, Messi contributed 11 goals and 5 assists in 14 matches in all competitions.

Source: websites