Almeyda Jokes About Messi’s Relentless Drive Ahead of Leagues Cup Clash
Following a loss to Orlando City, CF Monterrey coach Matías Almeyda lightheartedly suggested Lionel Messi should extend his vacation. The remark comes as Monterrey prepares to face an in-form Inter Miami in the tournament's second round.
Key takeaways
- Matías Almeyda joked that Lionel Messi should have extended his family vacation instead of returning early to Inter Miami.
- Messi became the all-time Leagues Cup leading scorer with 14 goals after a brace against Atlético San Luis.
- CF Monterrey will face Inter Miami in the Leagues Cup second round on August 8 at NU Stadium.
The Challenge of Facing a Restless Icon
CF Monterrey manager Matías Almeyda utilized humor to address the looming threat of Lionel Messi during a recent press conference. After his squad fell to Orlando City, Almeyda shifted focus to the upcoming Leagues Cup second-round fixture against Inter Miami, scheduled for Saturday, August 8, at NU Stadium. The Argentine coach questioned why his compatriot returned to the pitch so swiftly following an exhausting World Cup campaign.
Professionalism Over Leisure
Almeyda noted that despite Argentina playing seven matches, including three extra-time sessions, Messi appears uninterested in traditional downtime. "Didn't he feel like staying on vacation a little longer? I mean, going on a boat, being with his family," Almeyda remarked to reporters. The coach characterized the Inter Miami captain as a "machine" whose passion for the sport remains undiminished by age or previous successes. While acknowledging Messi's status as the quintessential professional, Almeyda admitted he hopes the star has an off-day during their Saturday meeting.
Record-Breaking Momentum
Inter Miami enters the contest following a dominant performance against Atlético San Luis, fueled by two goals and an assist from Messi. This production secured Messi's position as the most prolific scorer in Leagues Cup history. He currently leads the all-time charts with 14 goals across 12 appearances, surpassing Denis Bouanga’s 13-goal mark.
Key Facts
- The matchup between CF Monterrey and Inter Miami takes place on August 8 at NU Stadium.
- Lionel Messi holds the record for most Leagues Cup goals with 14 strikes in 12 games.
- Matías Almeyda highlighted Messi's resilience after a World Cup that included three extra-time appearances for Argentina.
- Other top tournament scorers include Denis Bouanga (13), Bongokuhle Hlongwane (7), Tai Baribo (7), and Cucho Hernández (7).
Source: MARCA
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