Former Argentina striker Sergio Aguero has explained why Lionel Messi’s impact on Inter Miami was crucial in securing the club’s spot at the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup. Aguero said that Messi’s enormous global following made it essential for FIFA to include the Herons in this expanded tournament taking place in the United States.
The 2025 Club World Cup will debut a new format featuring 32 teams, including notable clubs like Real Madrid, Boca Juniors, Al-Hilal, and Wydad AC. Inter Miami earned their place by winning the 2024 MLS regular season, with Messi playing a key role throughout their championship campaign, scoring 23 goals and providing 13 assists in just 25 matches.
Despite advancing age, Messi remains a massive crowd-puller and continues to demonstrate his exceptional talent. Aguero, who played alongside Messi for both Argentina and Barcelona, emphasized how important Messi’s presence is to the tournament’s appeal, attracting viewers and attention worldwide.
Speaking to FIFA, Aguero commented:
“Well, I think this is something that is quite important for Inter Miami, and especially knowing that Leo is there, and I think that for the world as a whole and for the fans, I think it was quite important that Inter Miami be included, too, because by now, we know that Messi is… Although it may be painful for some, he is one of the players that everyone wants to see.”
—Sergio Aguero, Former Argentina Striker
Messi has continued his strong form into 2025, already tallying 15 goals and six assists in 20 appearances for Inter Miami. His performance will likely be the decisive factor if the team is to contend seriously for the Club World Cup title.
Aguero Predicts Messi’s Determination to Shine at the Club World Cup
Sergio Aguero has expressed confidence that Lionel Messi will bring his best effort to Inter Miami’s 2025 FIFA Club World Cup campaign. As a close friend and teammate, Aguero highlighted Messi’s competitive nature and refusal to accept defeat, framing the tournament as an exciting new challenge for him.
In a recent interview, Aguero said:
“I think that it will be great to see Inter Miami compete against the other teams, and especially see the Inter Miami version of Messi, who is accomplishing everything now in MLS, and they won a title that for a number of years, or I don’t know if they have ever won anything, and I think that for Inter Miami, and Leo most of all, this new challenge, knowing him, he will try to do his very best because he will not want, same as with anything else, to lose at all.”
—Sergio Aguero, Former Argentina Striker
Inter Miami begins their Club World Cup journey against Egyptian club Al Ahly on Saturday, June 14. This match will serve as a key test of Messi’s ability to lead the team against some of the world’s best clubs under heightened pressure and expectations.
The inclusion of Inter Miami and Messi not only adds star power but also helps elevate the tournament’s profile globally, increasing interest from fans and media alike. Messi’s legacy, underscored by eight Ballon d’Or awards, continues to captivate audiences, and his performances at this event may further solidify his influence on North American soccer’s growth.