Lionel Messi's popularity helps Inter Miami land stunning two partnership deals 

Inter Miami benefits from having Lionel Messi not only on the pitch but off it as well. The Miami-based club recently announced two new partnership deals secured through the popularity of the mercurial maestro.

The World Cup winner and his side recently bagged two separate partnership deals with Lowe’s Companies Inc. (NYSE: LOW). The Herons will now have an official home improvement partner and the company will have a new ambassador in Messi.

Speaking about the partnership with Lionel Messi and The Herons, Gerardo Soto, Lowe’s vice president of brand marketing and sports partnerships said (via Sportico):

“Messi is not only the best player in the world who can score a goal on a dime but he’s also the top assister in history, with over 350 assists throughout his career. Partnering with Leo perfectly reflects Lowe’s shared passion for assisting our customers.”

While the financial details of the deal have not been released, there is expected to be a windfall for all parties involved.

Speaking about Lowe's, the eight-time Balon D'or winner said:

“Fútbol, much like home improvement, is all about teamwork and the assistance between people. I am happy to partner with Lowe’s, a brand that understands the importance of collaboration and helping people succeed.”

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Lionel Messi tagged a 'Harlem Globetrotter' for producing a world-class performance three days too late

Argentine maestro Lionel Messi has been branded a Harlem Globetrotter for producing a world-class performance against Sporting Kansas instead of Monterrey. The Barcelona icon was unable to inspire his side to victory against the Mexican side and they fell to a 5-2 aggregate loss in CONCACAF.

Former MLS and USMNT star Herculez Gomez, leveled criticism against the Inter Miami star on ESPN's Futbol Americas, saying:

“It’s three days too late. We see Messi and friends play in MLS and they look like the Harlem Globetrotters. Guess what the opposition looks like then? The Washington Generals."

"You go from playing against Rayados [Monterrey] who in CONCACAF is star-studded in their house where the fans were hostile and I thought we were going to see the angry Messi and for him to show up but he sure did in this game [vs Sporting KC]. We got prime Barcelona Messi, but my initial reaction? Three days too late.”

Lionel Messi has struggled with injuries this season but has still found time to chip in with consistent goal involvements for his side. The Argentine legend has scored seven goals and laid off four assists in eight games so far this term.

The Barcelona icon is no stranger to undue criticism and will hope he can continue to lead the Herons to greater heights this season.