United States international Christian Pulisic has waxed lyrical about Lionel Messi after the Argentinian icon grabbed a stoppage-time winner on his Inter Miami debut.
Lionel Messi replaced Benjamin Cremaschi in the 54th minute of Inter Miami’s Leagues Cup clash against Cruz Azul on Friday (July 21) to make his debut for the club. Despite only being on the pitch for 36 minutes, the superstar made a significant impact for his side.
Messi, 36, announced his arrival in Florida in stunning fashion as he found the back of the net with a stunning free-kick in the 94th minute.
The 2022 FIFA World Cup winner’s goal proved to be the difference as Gerardo Martino’s side registered a 2-1 victory.
Pulisic was among those who were awestruck by Messi’s performance on his Inter Miami bow.
The USMNT captain said that it’s hard to be amazed by the seven-time Ballon d’Or winner anymore, having been wowed by him for well over a decade.
“Of course, it happened that way,” Pulisic told Bleacher Report. “You know, it almost doesn’t surprise you anymore. I mean, what we’ve seen from him (Lionel Messi) in the past decade, even more, what he’s accomplished, what he continues to do.
“…Seeing all the stars watching him play and him coming in and scoring like that.”
“It really just doesn’t surprise me anymore,” Pulisic added. “He’s so used to the big moments. And, for him, that’s probably nothing. It’s still special nonetheless.