“Lionel Messi is three times happier playing in Inter Miami than in Barcelona” - Argentina legend makes emphatic claim

Argentina legend Mario Kempes has claimed Lionel Messi is much happier at Inter Miami than he would have been in Barcelona. Messi began his professional career with the Catalan club before leaving in 2021 to join Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) and then the Herons.

The eight-time Ballon d'Or winner is Barcelona's greatest player, with 672 goals and 303 assists in 778 games for them. However, Kempes believes that his compatriot looks happier in the pink of his new Miami-based club, telling TNT Sport (via GOAL) in a recent interview:

“Messi is three times happier playing in Inter Miami than in Barcelona. It's not about coming in and having to be focused for the whole 90 minutes. He plays when he wants to.”

Lionel Messi currently has 12 months left on his contract with the MLS franchise. He has bagged 34 goals and 18 assists for the Miami-based club to become their highest all-time goalscorer.

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Barcelona's reaction to Lionel Messi joining Inter Miami

In June 2023, Barcelona released a statement to wish club legend Lionel Messi the best ahead of his move to MLS outfit Inter Miami. The Argentine maestro joined the American club on a free transfer after his contract with PSG expired.

Blaugrana had reportedly tried to resign their greatest-ever player, but the Argentine star opted to move to the MLS to see out the twilight of his career. The Spanish giants addressed his decision in a post on their website that read:

"on Monday, June 5, Jorge Messi, the player’s father and representative, informed Club President Joan Laporta of the player's decision to join Inter Miami, despite having been presented with a proposal from Barça, in consideration of the desire of both FC Barcelona and Lionel Messi for him to once again wear blaugrana.

"President Laporta understood and respected Messi's decision to want to compete in a league with fewer demands, further away from the spotlight and the pressure he has been subject to in recent years. Both Joan Laporta and Jorge Messi also agreed to work together to promote a proper tribute from Barça fans to honor a footballer who has been, is, and always will be beloved by Barça."

Messi has enjoyed a fine time with the Herons. He has helped the side win their first two pieces of silverware, the Leagues Cup and Supporters Shield.