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Lionel Messi's first season with Inter Miami and in Major League Soccer ended recently. Before a friendly game against NYCFC at DRV PNK Stadium, Messi showed his eighth Ballon d’Or trophy and thanked the fans of Inter Miami. During the game, fans cheered for Messi, shouting “Vamos, Messi” (Let’s go, Messi). Messi had a chance to score a goal with a free kick near the end of the match, but couldn’t make it. NYCFC won the game 2-1. This game was more about celebrating Messi's time with the team than the score. Messi said he enjoyed his short time at the club and looks forward to next year.
Inter Miami’s owner, Jorge Mas, talked about Messi's arrival 122 days ago with his family. Mas praised Messi, calling him the greatest football player and the best number 10 in the world. He said Inter Miami was built to be a top football team in America, and with Messi, the club is achieving that dream. Since Messi joined, the club has become more popular. Their merchandise, especially the pink and black Inter Miami number 10 jerseys, and their matches on Apple TV have seen more sales and viewers. Messi led the team to win the Leagues Cup, their first-ever championship, in August. Inter Miami also did well in the U.S. Open Cup, but they didn't qualify for the MLS playoffs.
