Lionel Messi opens up on Barcelona exit: “I didn’t want to leave” | OneFootball

In a recent press conference, Lionel Messi has opened up on his decision to move to Inter Miami this summer while also revealing that his move to PSG was not a planned one.

“Signing for PSG was never planned. I didn’t want to leave Barcelona. It was a quick decision,” Messi said.

The Argentine further revealed that moving from Barcelona to Paris was difficult, adding, “From Barcelona to Paris was difficult but from Paris to Miami was different… I’m happy.”

Messi went on to explain the rationale behind his decision to join Inter Miami. “Coming here was a family decision, I just want to play football,” he said.

“That’s why I chose this place and I’m very happy with my decision. Not only for sports but also for the day-to-day here in Miami,” he added.

“I’ve already won and achieved everything in football and now I’m just enjoying the moment,” Messi further said. “I made the decision to come here to keep enjoying football.”

Following his shocking move to Miami, Messi has enjoyed a splendid start to his life in MLS. He has racked up nine goals in six Leagues Cup matches.

Messi is loving life at Inter Miami. (Photo by Mitchell Leff/Getty Images)

“It would be nice to win the Leagues Cup,” said Messi, who further revealed how important it was for him to win the 2022 FIFA World Cup in December.

“Winning the World Cup was my biggest dream,” he said. “I won the most important thing in my career, which is the World Cup… I don’t care about anything after that.”

Thanks to his brilliant performances in the World Cup, many believe Messi is one of the strongest contenders to win the upcoming Ballon d’Or.

Messi, though, is not bothered about winning the Ballon d’Or. “It is the biggest award on an individual level, but I do not care. What is important is the collective achievement,” he said.

“If I win the Ballon d’Or, great. If not, no worries. I prefer collective success,” he added.

Finally, the Argentine was asked about his recent Marvel celebrations after scoring goals for Inter Miami.

“My children are still on vacation and they haven’t started school yet so every night we watch Marvel movies. They are the ones who came up with the idea. They ask me to celebrate as a superhero after scoring goals,” Messi replied.