MLS manager discusses why Barcelona forward should move to US – originally posted on Sportslens.com
Former Argentina and Inter Milan star Matias Almeyda, who is the coach of MLS club San Jose Earthquakes, has suggested that Lionel Messi will be able to live a more natural life and get more freedom if he opts to wind down his career in the United States.
Messi will soon 34 but is expected to sign a new two-year deal with Barcelona which could see him remain at the Camp Nou beyond his 36th birthday.
“Do you know why I think it’s a good idea? Because the U.S. is a big country,” Almeyda told 90min.
“It has 350 million inhabitants, I think. The stars here can walk in peace in the street. Each person who wants a life can enjoy what he likes [and] will live a different life.
“For [Messi], for his children, for his wife, he will be able to walk, to ride a bicycle, he will be able to go to the supermarket. He won’t be under that fame that turns you into a slave, you know? That’s why I think [USA] could be a good place for him” added Almeyda.
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The 2022 World Cup is expected to be Messi’s swansong from international football and he will be looking to wind down his career thereafter.
Messi has been under intense media spotlight since he began his professional career with Barcelona in 2004. Since then he has gone on to win almost everything there is to win individually and with Barcelona, though the one thing that has eluded him is success on the international stage.
Barcelona are currently in a financial crisis and will be keen to keep hold of Messi so that he can help in the rebuilding process as the club looks to re-establish itself as giants of world football and reclaim the La Liga crown.
The Blaugrana finished third in the Spanish top-flight last season and have not won the Champions League since 2015.
Messi could indeed benefit from moving to the US. As football is still a growing sport in the country, he will get to live a more free life and spent more time with his young family.
American crowds are also less hostile as compared to those in Europe’s top five leagues and he will play in a less demanding environment where there will be less pressure on him to win man of the match awards in every single game.
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Author:Eshlin Vedan