Lionel Messi: David Beckham believes Lionel Messi will need time to adapt to MLS | Football News – Times of India

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By Samir On Jul 19, 2023

Inter Miami co-owner and football legend, David Beckham emphasised the need for patience during the Argentine’s adaptation to the Major League Soccer (MLS), even though the standard of play differs from European football.
Beckham, renowned for his stints with Manchester United and Real Madrid, was present at Messi’s first training session with Inter Miami, following the star’s signing of a two and a half year contract with the club.
In addition to Messi, Inter Miami also welcomed former Barcelona teammate Sergio Busquets, who joined the club and participated in the training session, guided by former Barcelona and Argentina coach, Gerardo ‘Tata’ Martino.Regarding Messi’s transition to the MLS, Beckham conveyed his understanding of the process, stating, “Leo’s still going to need, no matter how good he is, no matter what his stature is, he and Sergio are going to need time to adapt no matter… We might start winning every single game, but we have to be patient.”
The anticipation surrounding Messi’s debut for Inter Miami has reached an all-time high, but Beckham revealed that the Argentine may not necessarily start in the upcoming Leagues Cup game against Mexicans Cruz Azul.
“Leo will play some part of the game, but that will be down to the coach, and it’ll be down to Leo to decide if he’s ready because we know that he’s been away for a few weeks with his family. He looks sharp, he looks great, but he’s going to need time to adapt as well,” Beckham explained, acknowledging the importance of allowing Messi to settle in.

Reflecting on his own experience when he joined MLS with the LA Galaxy in 2007, Beckham recalled the initial challenges he faced in adapting to the league’s unique structure and standards at that time. Despite initial struggles, Beckham witnessed remarkable improvements and transformations within the league over the years.
Although MLS remains below the level of Europe’s top leagues, Beckham maintains unshakeable faith in Messi’s potential for success. However, he understands that the transition may not be immediate, considering the differences in playing style and the unique challenges posed by the league.

MLS has been a magnet for international stars, attracting them late in their careers. Players have encountered challenges, including frequent time-zone travel, matches on artificial surfaces, and adjusting to teammates with varying levels of technical ability.
Beckham expressed his unwavering confidence in Messi’s ability to make an impact, remarking, “It’s a different style of football, it’s a slightly different level to what obviously some of the players that are coming in are used to. But at the end of the day, this level of football in this country now is a good level, it’s a great level, so there are going to be moments where we have to be patient.”
(With inputs from AFP)

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