Lionel Messi said two words that MLS would have preferred if he hadn’t.

The MLS and Inter Miami threw out the red carpet for the soccer legend, who joined the league from Paris-Saint-Germain in July.

Messi, 36, inked a hefty contract that would pay him between $50 and $60 million per year through 2025, plus a portion of the MLS Season Pass subscription on Apple+ and Adidas products.

When he first arrived in the league, he made it look easy, scoring 11 goals in 14 games and quickly increasing interest in Inter Miami games.

Messi, on the other hand, did not characterize the league’s quality of competition in the best light when asked about his priorities in 2024 in an interview with Star+.

“I said it several times and it is a reality – I will always try to compete to the maximum and I am the first to know when I can be there and when I can’t,” Messi was quoted as saying by the newspaper.

“I am also aware that I went to a minor league, but a lot happens because of the way one faces it and competes.”

The club was undefeated for 12 games and won its first trophy, the League Cup, but injuries took their toll on Messi at times. 

With a record of 9-7-18, the squad was unable to make the MLS playoffs.

Messi, who won a record seventh Ballon d’Or this season, intends to compete on the world stage for as long as he believes he is capable.

He stated that he is focused on assisting Argentina in defending its Copa America championship in 2021, which will be held in Atlanta and Miami next summer.

“I’ll continue to play for Argentina as long as I feel good and can continue to deliver.” “All I’m thinking about today is getting to Copa América and playing in it,” he stated.

He also did not exclude out doing the same in the 2026 World Cup, but he is aware that his age may be a factor as Argentina seeks to defend its title. 

“Then time will tell whether I’ll be at the World Cup or not,” he remarked. “I’m going to be at an age (39) that normally doesn’t allow me to play in the World Cup.”