Credit: Nathan Ray Seebeck-USA TODAY Sports

Angel Di Maria Admits Lionel Messi Is the Reason he Watches MLS

Credit: Nathan Ray Seebeck-USA TODAY Sports

In his career, Lionel Messi has had a brotherly affection with a few of his teammates. One such player has been his Argentina teammate Angel Di Maria. The former Real Madrid winger recently offered a glowing tribute. He made it clear that Messi’s influence remains unmatched both on and off the pitch.

Angel Di Maria confessed that Messi single-handedly drew him to Major League Soccer. He said, “I watch Inter Miami games because I want to keep watching. I never watched MLS, and now I have a season ticket just to watch it.”

Angel Di Maria is watching MLS just for Messi 😆🩵 pic.twitter.com/Ydhmpy80Fj
— ESPN FC (@ESPNFC) August 18, 2025

Messi’s arrival at Inter Miami in 2023 revolutionized the perception of MLS worldwide. It not only attracted millions of new viewers to the streaming, but also thousands of spectators to the stadiums. Even seasoned professionals like Di Maria have been swept up in the so-called ‘Messi effect’.

Despite injury setbacks in recent months, Messi has shown flashes of brilliance at Inter Miami. He recently returned with a goal and an assist in a 3-1 win over LA Galaxy. While questions about his fitness remain, Di Maria sent another message before the big occasion arrives next year.

Also read: Lionel Messi Nets Stunning Goal After Injury Return, Leads Inter Miami to 3–1 Win Over LA Galaxy

Dia Maria: “Messi is from another planet”

The 2026 FIFA World Cup is less than a year away. Speculation has now been rife over whether Messi, who will be 39 by then, will feature for Argentina. Di Maria, however, has no doubts. Speaking to Argentine outlet La Nacion, the Rosario Central winger insisted that Messi’s name must be on the squad list regardless of his condition.

Di Maria said, “Yes, yes. No matter what shape he’s in, no matter what happens, Leo has to play in the World Cup, no matter what. That’s him, and he also keeps the national team growing and keeps people excited. That’s him. It’s like when Diego (Maradona) was there.”

Also Read: I Feel Ashamed: Neymar Left in Tears After Suffering Worst Defeat of His Career

The 36-year-old went further, comparing Messi to Maradona, calling both icons ‘from another planet’. He stressed that fans should savor Messi’s magic while it lasts. He added, “It’s them, and there’s no one else. We have to keep enjoying it, and hopefully it’ll be in the best shape possible. Leo is an alien. He’s a phenomenon—let’s not waste the chance to keep watching him.”

Di Maria retired from international duty after helping Argentina secure the 2024 Copa America title, but his admiration for Messi remains strong. He believes the World Cup stage simply wouldn’t feel complete without the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner leading La Albiceleste again.

2026 World Cup

Angel Di Maria

Argentina

Inter Miami

Lionel Messi

Rosario Central

Moumita Dutta

soccer

Football writer at The Playoffs. I’ve been obsessed with the beautiful game since I was a kid.. Eventually, I realized I could combine my passion for writing with my love for football, and I’ve never looked back. My favorite part of the job is everything—when you’re doing what you love, even a late-night deadline feels like extra time in a thrilling cup final. Lastly, Lionel Messi is the GOAT.