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Ashley Westwood, defensive midfielder for MLS club Charlotte FC, believes that Lionel Messi’s connection with his Barcelona teammates at Inter Miami has made life in America easier.<\/p>\n
In August, the 33-year-old midfielder faced Messi’s Inter Miami in the Leagues Cup quarter-final. During that match, the renowned Argentine showcased his scoring prowess, contributing to a 4-0 victory by netting one of his 11 goals in just as many matches since joining the David Beckham-owned squad.<\/p>\n
Messi, alongside the likes of Sergio Busquets and Jordi Alba, played an instrumental role in guiding Inter Miami to victory in the tournament. Their success extended to reaching the Open Cup final, further solidifying the immense anticipation and enthusiasm surrounding Messi’s high-profile signing during the summer transfer window.<\/p>\n
Speaking with Sky Sports, Westwood said, “The whole thing he’s [Messi] brought to the MLS has been incredible. I have played against some unbelievable players in the Premier League, but even at his age, he is still the greatest I’ve ever faced.”<\/p>\n
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Don’t miss… <\/strong> “Sergio Busquets in midfield as well,” Westwood continued. “He just sees things that others do not.<\/p>\n “Without Busquets, I think Messi would find it a little bit harder, but he’s got Busquets in midfield to find him with every pass. To play against him was a real honour, but he got the best of us, so hopefully, we’ll do a job when he comes to us.”<\/p>\n Busquets and Messi’s friendship dates back to their days at Barcelona. The pair formed a bond during their 13-year stint together at the club.<\/p>\n We use your sign-up to provide content in ways you’ve consented to and to improve our understanding of you. This may include adverts from us and 3rd parties based on our understanding. You can unsubscribe at any time. More info<\/p>\n They graced the pitch side by side in 567 matches across various competitions for the Spanish club. Their collective efforts contributed to 23 link-up play goals and played a pivotal role in securing an astounding 30 trophies for the club.<\/p>\n “He is the best in the world, and it is very easy to play next to him,” said Busquets about Messi. ” I know what he likes, I know what he wants, and above all, I try to be in the best conditions so that he unbalances as he always does.”<\/p>\n Jordi Alba’s addition to Inter Miami brings another familiar face to Messi, as the left-back spent 13 seasons playing alongside him at Barcelona. Alba revealed that he received multiple offers from various clubs worldwide, but he opted to join Inter Miami due to their exciting project despite receiving more lucrative offers elsewhere.<\/p>\n “I had other offers, but the correct decision was to come here, an exciting project. I see the team these days, [and] the truth is that I am very happy,” mentioned Alba.<\/p>\n “We can do many things. With the utmost humility, I made the decision after the selection despite having offers of more money. The important thing for me was to feel important.”<\/p>\n “The confidence of the coach [Tata Martino] made me assess the option, and it has done me good. I also saw the desire for [Martino] to come, and that is why I have come here.”<\/p>\n
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