Lionel Messi's Steady Hand: Inter Miami's Tadeo Allende On His Role In Crisis

Last Updated:February 21, 2026, 13:00 IST

Inter Miami star Tadeo Allende lauds Lionel Messi’s captaincy and influence ahead of the MLS 2026 opener, highlighting team resilience.

Star Inter Miami and Argentina winger Tadeo Allende has said that Lionel Messi’s leadership motivates footballers, adding that in chaotic moments, the latter delivered calm, measured messages that resonated because of his presence and stature.

Allende claims that Messi, leading by example, has always helped them do better.

Speaking to GOAL ahead of the MLS 2026 season opener, Allende lauded Messi’s strong personality, saying that his leadership drives the Inter Miami footballers to perform at their best.

“Messi has a very strong personality. It shows on the field. His leadership pushes you forward all the time. And in chaotic moments, he delivered calm messages and they carry weight because of who they come from," Allende said.

“That helped us stay composed while playing. I had an up-and-down season, but in the last few months, I found consistency. I felt comfortable, connected with everything and scoring goals helped me settle into a really good rhythm," Allende added.

Allende acknowledged that the 2025 season was challenging for the team, with multiple setbacks along the way, but they were thrilled to finish on a high note, clinching the MLS Cup for the first time in Inter Miami’s history.

“It was a tough year with several setbacks that were hard to recover from, especially losing the Leagues Cup. But we were always close to reaching our goals, making a final, reaching a Champions Cup semifinal," Allende said.

“The second half of the season was more solid from us as a group, in terms of professionalism and consistency. We got the results we needed and were able to go all the way and exceptionally win the league," Allende added.

Meanwhile, after suffering a hamstring injury earlier this month that forced Inter Miami to postpone their friendly in Puerto Rico, Messi has now recovered. Javier Mascherano confirmed he will be available for the MLS season opener against LAFC.

News sports football Lionel Messi's Steady Hand: Inter Miami's Tadeo Allende On His Role In Crisis

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