Luis Enrique comments on Lionel Messi and other Barcelona icons guiding Inter Miami to MLS Cup glory

Former Barcelona boss Luis Enrique has hailed Lionel Messi and his Inter Miami teammates for conquering the MLS for the first time. The Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) boss was in charge of Messi and co. during their successful spell in Spain, winning the treble together a decade ago.

Enrique spoke to reporters about the quartet of former Barcelona stars that helped Inter Miami to win the MLS Cup over the weekend. He praised them as incredible players and people, congratulating them, while also pointing out that their success in the USA is deserved.

“They are very good people and incredible players. They deserve everything they get. They must be very proud of what they have done, as people and as footballers. Congratulations to them", he said (via Tribuna.com).

All four of Lionel Messi, Sergio Busquets, Jordi Alba, and Luis Suarez played prominent roles for Inter Miami as they enjoyed great success this year. The quartet were all stalwarts in Enrique's Barcelona team, with coach Javier Mascherano also playing under the Spaniard at the Nou Camp.

Messi's move to Florida to play for Inter Miami in 2023 sparked an influx of ex-Blaugrana stars, leading the club to achieve significant success since then. They have won four trophies together in the MLS, while also leading their club to play in the CONCACAF Champions Cup and FIFA Club World Cup for the first time.

Lionel Messi will be without his trusted lieutenants from next season, as both Alba and Busquets have officially retired after the MLS Cup final. The future of 38-year-old Suarez at the club is unsure, seeing as his contract with the club is set to expire at the end of this month.

Barcelona sporting director addresses Lionel Messi transfer speculation

Barcelona's sporting director Deco has shared his thoughts on speculation linking club legend Lionel Messi with a sensational return to the Nou Camp. The 38-year-old has been away from the club since 2021, having been forced to leave as a free agent due to their financial troubles.

Deco spoke on radio show Que t’hi jugues, pointing out that the possibility of re-signing the Argentine great was never considered at the club. He admitted that the forward is a great player and could still contribute, but that he has an active contract with Inter Miami.

"I don't think it's possible because Leo is under contract and it was never even considered. Leo is always Leo and he could still contribute something; he's a great player, but it's not something we're going to talk about. The current situation is entirely speculative", he said (via Fox Sports).

Lionel Messi signed a new three-year deal with Inter Miami earlier this year that will keep him in Florida until 2028. He has spoken repeatedly of his love for Barcelona and his desire to return to live in the city at the end of his spell in the MLS.