LAFC defender Giorgio Chiellini said Lionel MessiIt is InterMiami is the best team he has faced MLS after a 3-1 defeat at home for the Southern California club and backed Miami as a possible playoff contender.

“This team [Miami] “He’s by far the best I’ve faced in MLS, to be honest,” the 39-year-old said. Italy international defender. “Yeah, by a long shot.”

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Led by two assists from Messi, Miami did well to contain an LAFC team that was unable to capitalize on chances on their raucous BMO Stadium pitch, which was packed with an eclectic group of celebrities like LeBron James, Leonardo Di. Caprio, Prince Harry, Selena Gomez, Will Ferrell, Jason Sudeikis and the members of Rage Against The Machine.

Following the loss, LAFC head coach Steve Cherundolo was candid when asked in the post-match press conference about Messi’s impact in MLS.

“He’s the best player in the world, what did you think he was going to do when he came here?” » said Cherundolo.

With two assists on Sunday, Messi brought his total to 11 goals and five assists in 11 matches played in all competitions with Miami. Thanks to his form, Miami is unbeaten in those 11 appearances, extending their current club record that began with Messi’s arrival in July.

Miami, once in last place in the MLS Eastern Conference, must move from 14th to ninth in nine games to make the playoffs, but Chiellini expects to see them in the playoffs.

“I think they will make the playoffs,” said the former Champions League finalist.

Chiellini also praised Messi for what he has done with Miami and with the league as a whole.

“Leo coming to this league is great, not just for Miami and the game, but for the attention that everyone is now paying to MLS. It’s a big step for this league.” , did he declare.

Messi reiterated Miami’s goal of making the playoffs.

“Now we will try to achieve the goal of being in the top eight to try to aim for the league. Messi’s Inter Miami the best I’ve faced in MLS – Chiellini,” he said. “This is the way forward. We continue to grow. Obviously winning gives you confidence.”

Messi acknowledged that LAFC posed a challenge for Miami.

“We said it before the match, [game] It was a great test to see where we are, what we are capable of,” Messi said. “We were playing on a difficult pitch, against a very good rival, the reigning champions. It’s a good result ahead of what’s to come.

“The team is growing every day, we have said that from the beginning. We were lucky to win a title [Leagues Cup]to reach a final.”

Messi said he has no plans to ask for rest in upcoming matches.

“Physically I feel good. I continue to play, to cooperate, to help the team as much as I can. I hope we can continue this trend,” he said.