Inter Miami move is 'no holiday' for Lionel Messi

James Shearman

• Updated: 30 Jun 2023 15:17 BST
• 3 min read

Lionel Messi and Sergio Busquets will not be on 'holiday' at Inter Miami, says head coach Gerardo Martino.

The Barcelona legends have both signed for the MLS club as free agents this month.

And Martino, who previously worked with them at Camp Nou, is making it known that they are expected to turn the club's fortunes around.

MORE: Messi SLAMS PSG ahead of Inter Miami move

Inter are currently in last position in the MLS Eastern Conference, with just five wins from 18 matches.

This dismal start to the campaign saw former Manchester United player Phil Neville sacked as head coach.

Now, Martino, who also coached Messi with the national team after his Barcelona days, has assumed Neville's responsibilities.

"This happens to us even on a personal level; sometimes we associate the United States, Miami, holidays - this isn't that," the Argentine boss said in his introductory press conference.

"We want to compete... [Messi and Busquets] are not footballers who are going to come here to not compete."

Martino on MLS opportunity

"I always found this opportunity attractive... let's just say that the presents (Messi and Busquets) arrived next," Martino said.

"I believe that MLS has a constant evolution, and the examples are the great soccer players from the United States who are playing in Europe and very good teams in Europe.

"(And) that the best player in the world decides to play in this league, obviously it will open up an even better panorama for that growth. I believe that the United States is not a country that misses out on this type of opportunity."

Messi is expected to make his Inter Miami debut on July 21 in a cup match against Mexican side Cruz Azul.