MESSI TO MIAMI!!!

On The Stephen A. Smith Show, Smith gives you his renowned point of view, breaking barriers beyond the world of sports, and tackling pertinent issues across entertainment, pop culture, society, business, and politics. Three times a week, you'll hear his LIVE unfiltered opinions on the day's biggest headlines as well as straight-shooting interviews with top celebrities, game-changers, and thought leaders across the societal arena.
The Stephen A. Smith Show is sure to entertain, inform, and motivate anyone who tunes in.

[@tdsm99]

PSG league is more accurate than you realise Stephen A😂

[@denk664]

True true 😅

[@salvadorzorraquin8864]

PSG Uber eats league

[@KenDouSip]

Paris est magique même si la direction est tragique 🔵🔴

[@farhanchowdhury1846]

deadass, he is gonna have a tougher time winning the MLS than Ligue 1, lol.

[@yanrice2]

Wow. 😂 farm league all the way

[@aris_mendez]

It’s such a shame how many American pundits are clueless about the worlds game. But I say, I REALLY APPRECIATE you Stephan A for covering this and giving it the respect it deserves. I’m in Houston, and a Real Madrid fan, but be rest assured I’m going to see the Goat play in person!!

[@st.thomasaquinas19]

is it the really the “worlds sport” if it pretty much entirely skips Oceania and the vast majority of North America and East Asia?

[@insanecrane5280]

Soccer Just Doesn’t Stand A Chance w American Football & Basketball In The USA & I Think That’s Just Because It Didnt Originate Over Here

[@helenhua2970]

@@st.thomasaquinas19 it is vastly pouplar in many asian countries and oceania but okay. also pull up american football intrest around the world lmao

[@sugarkookiewithsometae4245]

​@@st.thomasaquinas19 It is the most popular sport in Japan, South Korea and 2nd most popular in China. Most popular sport in basically every country of Africa, North African countries(outside of Egypt) arent that successful, but its still immensely popular and the No.1 sport.

[@grinchoi1]

I'm glad that as a Real Madrid fan you objectively recognize the 🐐

[@jamesmaguire9518]

I know Stephen a doesn’t like soccer, but I’m glad he said something about Messi. It’s a huge deal. Also, 100% right about the load management in Europe. People would literally be murdered.

[@GeneralZod1991]

dude,, this is messi, this is an athlete who can be said to be the caliber of Jordan, Kobe, Lebron, moving to the Chinese or Taiwan basketball league.. lol

[@crigonalgaming1258]

@@vb2388 cap. Messi ain't bigger than MJ in the 90's.

[@damnson4637]

Bro is the goat of the biggest sport of all time. He is bigger than mj for sure dont be delusional

[@DestroyerOff]

@@crigonalgaming1258 lmao. Messi is internationally well known, MJ is nowhere near his fame outside of USA. I’m from Asia and damn near everyone was a fan of soccer over there.

[@crigonalgaming1258]

@@DestroyerOff I'm Asian and witnessed the 90's. Nobody is buying Messi shoes, kids rushing to buy Gatorades to be "like Messi". Messi didn't triple a company's value like Mike did for Nike in 1 year. Chicago literally sold out all hotel reservations whenever MJ was in the playoffs. Messi didn't make a blockbuster movie hit like Space Jam. Messi didn't shut off an entire city metropolis by playing in a world series like Mike did in the 1992 Dream Team. Jordan was an icon akin to Michael Jackson. Messi is a great player, surely is the GOAT of football, but he ain't the icon Jordan was. Jordan was LITERALLY a cultural movement.

[@SipheSithole]

Stephen A Smith's take on load management is quite correct, the fans would riot if any player opted to sit out.

[@simonso3632]

They do have load management in football, it is called squad rotation. No football players or managers will come out and say load management, but squad rotation is code for load management.

[@aris_mendez]

@@simonso3632 but it’s necessary. Load management is not necessary in basketball, when has it ever helped a team?

[@simonso3632]

@@aris_mendez Spurs won titles because of load management. So has Lakers with LeBron.

[@xboxgamerhr]

​@@aris_mendezmiami heat?

[@Robani03]

@@simonso3632but the players have no say. If somehow the fans or the footballmedia find out a player demands skipping a couple games because he feels like it it’s done. As long as there are things to play for it can’t happen. A rotation like at city for example is because of the manager

[@Creativocopy]

Messi moving to the MLS is the equivalent of MJ moving to the Chinese basketball league after he won his 6th ring. Messi embodies football. His move here will mark a before and after in the MLS.

[@gunmuratilban8667]

It's not. Because MJ was still the best player in the NBA by the time he got his 6th ring. And age is a much bigger factor in football, comparing to basketball. Messi is the greatest player of all time in football, without a doubt imo. But he's not a top 10 player currently.

[@jayjorg]

@@gunmuratilban8667 name your top ten then, if it helps pick two of the best perfomers in the five major leagues. Goals/assists. He led Ligue 1 in assists and was in the top ten in goals as well.

[@gunmuratilban8667]

@@jayjorg I'll name 10 attacking players for you who are currently better than Messi. So no keepers, defenders or defensive midfielders. 1)Mbappe 2) Haaland 3) De Bruyne 4) Kane 5) Vinicius 6) Lewandowski 7) Bernardo 8) Saka 9) Khvicha 10) Odegaard Then there's also Osimhen, Salah, Rashford, Bruno, Pedri, Frenkie, Bellingham, Musiala, Nkunku, Leao, Rodrygo, Neymar who can all be argued up there. And again, these are just attackers.

[@gunmuratilban8667]

@Viktorian Not an American, so you can keep the eggball joke. Also try watching games first before talking about it. Messi has just been hanging on in PSG, completely a shadow of his former self. He's being booed by the fans of PSG and they never liked him due to his underwhelming performances. Of course it's Messi and he is making good contribution regardless. But if you want to talk stats, sure. First of all, there's no stat in football such as goal to assist ratio. Maybe you're confusing G/A, Messi doesn't have the best G/A in Europe by any stretch. Let's see the guys you just called amateurs. Kane had 30 goals and 3 assists, Saka had 14 goals and 11 assists, Odegaard had 15 goals and 8 assists. Let me remind you all three players are in EPL, which is a much, much more competitive league than Ligue 1. They're also very hard working players, doing a lot more than mere goals and assists.

[@Creativocopy]

@@gunmuratilban8667 I agree that Messi is past his prime, but I think you missed the point here. Ever seen a football fan with a tattoo of Odegaard or Saka? Or a mural of Musiala? Would Apple, Adidas, and the MLS team up to pitch an offer to Kane? Would ticket prices hit $500 to see Khvicha play? Messi has reached a legendary status that extends beyond the pitch. The players you mention are great, but none would move the needle for the MLS as Messi.

[@AcDCsama-rt5qz]

People don't realise how good he is. His prime is unmatched. He set the bar so high that no has come even close to it. Now that he's 35 and in his twilight years he is still matching up with the best players of this current generation who are in their prime. This is how good he is. Even at 35 he's still plays this game 10 steps ahead of everyone.

[@johsy]

FACTS

[@karimb972]

He clearly lost a step, though. It showed against Bayern Munich in the Champions League. Bayern midfielder weren't scared of him and the results speaka for itself. Just 5 years ago the sight of Messi bringing up the ball in midfield was the scariest thing in the sport. Today, not so much.

[@karimb972]

Also, the level of play in the WC is substantially lower than in the UCL. He's still terrific and already the best player in the MLS but he's still going to need better colleagues. By himself he won't make Miami a title contender. Football is not basketball. If they don't bring reinforcements they will still suck and and if Miami remains a bottom dweller the greatest opportunity of all time will be wasted for the MLS and the sport in North America.

[@SB-kr2xk]

​@@karimb972 no, nothing beats the world cup's intensity. Its the toughest tournament ever

[@AcDCsama-rt5qz]

@@karimb972 look at the level of players he was playing with in PSG. Anytime he had the ball they all stop. Anytime he asks for the ball no one can provide him the ball. Bayern’s main plan wasn’t to stop PSG. Their whole game-plan was to cut supply off to and from Messi. That was the game-plan. I mean when you are the only player who can create attacking plays and the whole team is based to block just the one person I mean it just speaks for itself.

[@Herb..StateOfGeorgiaOwnsFSU]

Not just a superstar but THE SUPERSTAR.

[@thebabbler8867]

RONALDO.

[@endrykperez412]

​@@thebabbler8867 🤦🏾‍♂️😂😂🤣🤣

[@Mo-rn9dn]

​@The Babbler You mean Mr Champions League? You mean most clutch player?

[@TheHajinator]

Messi is the GOAT but Ronaldo is more of a celebrity

[@ricoyfacilconessen]

Messi is not only the best player of these times, he is also an exceptional person... maybe you will understand this when you see him play and see him behave off the court you will understand why he is the greatest Messi doesn't argue, he doesn't fight, he's just incredible

[@treyjohnson8557]

Most of the time he doesn’t fight, the Netherlands game he got a little pissed haha.

[@ricoyfacilconessen]

@@treyjohnson8557 jajaaj anda pa ya bobo ajajajajaajaj

[@yk100]

​@@treyjohnson8557 Camera wowo

[@ducatarina]

Thanks to King Goat Pelé the one who put football in a mediocre country like Usa, Pele is the greatest of all time the only who was crowned the greatest of all time and the king of football with a diamond crown in his head, the only who trancended the sport

[@qenjaboy]

@@ducatarina Are you 70 years old?

[@King_JappyJoe]

Stephen A does not need ESPN. ESPN needs Stephen A.

[@remowilliams7029]

Both equally 💩.

[@JohnG81]

True

[@rh81454]

He and Shannon need to do a Pat Mcafee like podcast (before espn deal).

[@mikehank2896]

ESPN fc cover soccer better and there is load management in EU

[@user-ov6ht3lu4d]

@@rh81454 I can't stand Shannon kissing Bron's @ss, so I want to see them in the same show

[@gilmarvenon]

Americans will realize soon how big of deal Messi is.

[@ricoyfacilconessen]

Estan a punto de saberlo😏

[@treyjohnson8557]

I don’t think so. I understand but reality is soccer isn’t cared about very much

[@XX2Media]

@@treyjohnson8557incorrect. MLS has already passed the NHL in attendance and revenues. That puts them in the top 4 in team sports in the United States. You simply have no clue of what you are talking about.

[@treyjohnson8557]

@@XX2Media You simply have no idea what you’re talking about. The United States largely cares about 3 sports, basketball, football, baseball. Lmk when you get better information bud (numbers don’t lie)

[@cellmotivation]

@@treyjohnson8557 The biggest sport in the world and its biggest star going to the USA. You will get it soon. Inter Miami's followers 10x overnight because of messi and the deal hasn't even been signed yet.. Cheapest tickets now to watch Inter Miami are $550 and rising, before they were only $20

[@jah_hern81]

Greatest football player of all time, Messi.

[@angel-ij4xv]

you mean soccer

[@hasibalfuad9652]

@Bebeto_7 what is the color of your world cup?

[@rh81454]

@@hasibalfuad9652 got emmmm! lol.

[@Grievous_]

@@angel-ij4xv Football*

[@rickyriederer7459]

​@@hasibalfuad9652 you just did the gotcha bitch hahahaha

[@Samuel-zk9dg]

This is bigger than anything in worlds sports history. Americans will find out soon, very soon.

[@davidlondon7631]

Nobody cares about soccer

[@ur3al_]

@@davidlondon7631 literally the whole world cares theres a reason why football players are the most popular athletes in the world and not basketball or nfl athletes

[@Kilcrops0914]

​@@davidlondon7631 what world do people live in when they make this comment? It's such a stupid statement. Literally the world cares.

[@andyj247]

@@davidlondon7631 you ain't too bright are ya Dave? The worlds biggest sport with its biggest star going to America. You got no idea what's coming... but u gon find out real soon!

[@davidlondon7631]

@@Kilcrops0914 soccer is boring and a waste of time I will never watch soccer game you have to pay me $1,000 to watch that garbage

[@bostoncelticsable]

Love that Stephen A Smith is showing love to Messi coming here. Better see you at the stadium and watch greatness

[@TheoneQ]

Psg league😂😂😂😂😂😂 As soon as I saw Stephan talking about Messi, I knew it was going to be comedy😂😂

[@Jxvani1]

Thank you Stephen A for talking about the GOAT from the beautiful game ⚽️

[@Osssscccar777]

He didn't talk about cristiano Ronaldo ?

[@emiliano7937]

​@LAKER NATION why would he talk about ronaldo?

[@ducatarina]

Thanks to King Goat Pelé the one who put football in a mediocre country like Usa, Pelé is the greatest footballer of all time

[@ducatarina]

lo Pelé invented the beatiful game fool, Messi aint no goat

[@Osssscccar777]

@@emiliano7937 bc he's the GOAT

[@asdfadf1904]

This is so huge for the MLS. I could see this move changing the future of the game in the US depending on how long Messi stays, and I don't even watch soccer like that.

[@hooman6305]

FOOTBALL

[@monjesmedia]

Thank you for covering this, Stephen! Soccer’s growth has been something to witness here. I’m an Argentinian/German/American living in Seattle. Sounders game are a hot ticket here. Butts in seats, baby!! Vamos Messi!! ⚽️💥

[@ahmedgharsalli-jb4bz]

Argentinian German🧐

[@Andy-vc9cp]

Man spoke well and even included the load management part and you know he is 100 percent right on that context.

[@Hartwik]

Load management is player rotation right?

[@socialseahawksfan9325]

Hes not just going to change the mls league, hes gonna change soccer in the USA.

[@radiotvabeldesaintete5180]

You tham right br even do I'm not a messi fan I'm a ronaldo fan

[@gabriyeldizondelafuente8443]

for sure

[@jordanjohnson9866]

Nah. Not Hes not just going to change the mls league. Not “Hes not just going to change the mls league.” /

[@hooman6305]

FOOTBALL

[@richliu7335]

Stephen A, you nailed this one. Love it. I hope people really take this opportunity to think about and appreciate having such an amazing athlete/superstar, G.O.A.T. of his sport. Leo Messi is not only a difference maker that changes the way teams conjure up tactics in games he plays but this man has won it all wherever he has played. He is still able to play elite ball and just won the World Cup last year and he factored into the result with his goals scored and the way he alters defenses so his teammates can also succeed. Imagine how Michael Jordan was at his height. That is Leo Messi today. In addition, he is a really down to earth guy, a family guy, and he conducts himself with honor. If a beautiful model asks for a selfie with him, he would politely decline out of respect to his wife because he doesn't want to give the media gossip fuel. So excited to have him wearing a Miami kit. Enjoy this, everyone.

[@ducatarina]

Thanks to King Goat Pelé the one who put football in a mediocre country like Usa, Pelé is the greatest footballer of all time

[@richliu7335]

@@ducatarina True, Pele did so much for the game on and off the pitch. Miss him.

[@biterlombi3508]

Greatest players of all times..the Lionel Messi 🐐

[@ducatarina]

Thanks to King Goat Pelé the one who put football in a mediocre country like Usa, Pelé is the greatest footballer of all time

[@biterlombi3508]

@@ducatarina it's ur opinion

[@biterlombi3508]

@@ducatarina did he ever played in europe n Won multiples ucl.. even the Neymar played like God in santos(brazilian league).. but Messi has won world cup,the multiple ucl.. he is now the highest top scorer and highest assist provider in the European top 5 league..

[@ducatarina]

@@biterlombi3508 Pelé won 3 world cups, he is the greatest world cup player ever since he was 17 years old, he scored 1283 goals in his carrer, the only who trancended the sport to be the greatest, he is the only who was crowned the greatest of all time and the king of football with a diamond crown in his head kid there is no debate, Messi was the guy who gave Pelé a standing ovation when he was called the greatest of all time at the fifa awards lol, when Jordan and Ali is mentioned Pelé is mentioned, Messi is not on that shelf, Messi is now in Usa because of Pelé put football in this country

[@michaelangelo5580]

@@biterlombi3508 if you knew as much s you think you do, you would know that Pele was declared a national treasure by the Government, therefore, he couldn't leave the country. Every single European team wanted him! But he couldn't go. He did destroyed the Champion league winner in the Intercontinental Cup though (now known as Club world cup), so that should tell you how good he was!

[@gamebredo8880]

Huge respect Stephen.A for appreciating the G.O.A.T...Americans dont even know how lucky they are ..the 🌎 loves Messi

[@charlesdavid2741]

...with 469 million Instagram followers--no kidding!!!

[@Uneasythrone]

This very massive for the MLS. Major props for speaking about it 👏

[@yurigagarin5758]

They call it soccer so stupid 🇺🇲🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣⚽

[@menajee94]

For those who don't know. When Stephen first started covering sports, he began with soccer.

[@markomarjanovic7643]

Really?

[@LZ08]

Yeah, I recall it was a college soccer team.

[@Linteria]

i see why he stopped covering it, can't even pronounce the names. 😂

[@gabkoost]

And yet he doesn't understand the difference between a club and a league.

[@ImagineStory-rw5ks]

Good that he doesn’t anymore cuz bro doesn’t know what he’s talking about😂

[@alejandrabazanzarate3132]

Le deseo lo mejor a Messi y su familia!!! Si el es feliz yo soy feliz...!!!

[@marcianusvalerius1992]

This is like if MJ went to the Shanghai Sharks at age 35.

[@Adam-kt3mu]

USA > China

[@nicm1524]

No sir I disagree

[@debojyotisarkar8256]

@@nicm1524 Messi is bigger than any basketball player and at 36 years old he can be bigger than MJ in the future .

[@barecanvas0348]

⁠@@debojyotisarkar8256 Messi as legendary as he is will never be bigger than Michael Jordan

[@adithyadev3203]

​@@barecanvas0348😂 futball>>>basketball

[@Fanofstuff278]

Stephen a smith podcast growing at a crazy rate right now!

[@user-dr2ww2jg8o]

This is the equivalent of Michael Jordan joining the shanghai sharks at 35

[@WRNIIVIIII]

*LeBron If we are talking play style

[@PyroMiniYak]

@@WRNIIVIIII but if we’re talking about the two GOATs of their respective sport it’s MJ and Messi

[@ManilaPuregold]

​@@PyroMiniYak whahaha GOAT? Then its definitely lebron and messi 😂🎉😂😂🎉

[@PyroMiniYak]

@@ManilaPuregold MJ has more scoring titles, more all defensive selections, more championships, more MVPs, more finals MVPs, most 40 and 50 point games in the playoffs, averages more offensive rebounds and blocks even though he’s a guard, has better footwork, has a better jumper, has a higher vertical, is 5th all time in points despite having played 5 less season then those in front of him. MJ is the Messi of basketball. They’re both living examples of poetry in motion. Lebrons has that 2nd spot locked down but he still ain’t MJ

[@amda7882]

@@ManilaPuregold it’s CR7 and Lebron

[@michael-jamescaroline9366]

That Lebron reference at the beginning😂

[@simonso3632]

PSG is a club, not a league! LOL!

[@chahit6146]

Well they win everything so...

[@BeanieDoggerson]

I mean it kinda is the PS g league 😂

[@kareemsashyknees2576]

May as well be the league

[@treyjohnson8557]

@@chahit6146 no they don’t

[@kunited9]

Messi is going to be a multibillionaire. He is the goat in the most popular sport in the world and hes about to make the biggest business move ever in sports history

[@onlyfacts3178]

he is already a multibillionaire...

[@sfarling108]

@@onlyfacts3178 He donates huge amounts of money to build schools in impoverished countries.

[@mdb1010]

@@onlyfacts3178no he’s not lol

[@ducatarina]

Thanks to King Goat Pelé the one who put football in a mediocre country like Usa, Pelé is the greatest footballer of all time

[@onlyfacts3178]

@@ducatarina NO he is not....only in amateur leagues like BRAZIL and USA...

[@domagojhrgovic7419]

Stephen A Smith the football expert.

[@nikozovner8712]

You mean Soccer

[@domagojhrgovic7419]

@@nikozovner8712 No, I mean football.

[@dnn32]

😂😂😂😂 stephen a made a quick Google search abt psg.

[@TheHigherpurpose]

😂

[@JamaicanToast]

😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂

[@geefryherrera3261]

This is a great move for the MLS in general. Most SUPERSTARS don’t bother coming to the MLS due to their egos and not wanting to come to a “small league” but if MESSI the GOAT of the sport decides to come then others are going to come in the future. And look Messi isn’t in his prime but he’s still TOP 10 in the world rn and had many European teams trying to get him…and he chose MIAMI 🔥

[@ducatarina]

Thanks to King Goat Pelé the one who put football in a mediocre country like Usa, Pelé is the greatest footballer of all time

[@bunnythebunbalboa]

@@ducatarina no he's not, maybe top 2 or 3. He played in the dinosaur age of football when most players were family men that played and then went off to work as butchers and tailors after a game. Pele was a superstar and a great damn player different from everyone else of course but Garrincha was better and he had to let Pele take all of the credit because he was the face of football internationally back then, but most of his rivals played football at a lower level.

[@lukaslillestl-brandlistuen7269]

He chose miami because barcelona couldn’t get him in time and he wanted to be loyal to them and not join anyone else in europe. And miami is a good place to live for kids. No superstar will ever join the mls in their prime because they want to play in the champions league and the world cup and in the biggest 5 leagues.

[@adeoayoola]

The biggest impact I think is more stars following Messi's lead and coming to the MLS

[@richardjno]

As a Canadian & football fanatic, I applaud you for covering this story. Football (aka Soccer to Americans) is the #1 global sport in the world followed by #2 Basketball. Keep it mind North American will be hosting the next World Cup, & considering the amount of additional TV/Ad / Stock royalties drawn up to secure Messi, As Stephen's last point this is a MONSTER Deal! Lionel Messi will once again change the face of football & set a new unprecedented trend in Athlete contracts.

[@ducatarina]

Pele already change the face of football

[@MikeCee7]

It’s called “Soccer” in Canada as well.

[@EpirotKing_GeorgeK]

This is the GOAT of football coming to the MLS. This is no Becks, no Henry, no Drogba, or you name it. He's the best of all time. What a treat for the fans in MLS!!! Expect a renewed interest in the sport and sold out crowds all around.

[@ducatarina]

Thanks to King Goat Pelé the one who put football in a mediocre country like Usa, Pelé is the greatest footballer of all time

[@Fisherdanpro23]

Mr smith! I saw this and right away bought tickets to watch Messi in Chicago!! Thanks for the update. Tickets sky rocketed for this brotha!

[@WangMotions]

Prepare to be disappointed

[@charlesdavid2741]

Wow Lionel Messi--the GOAT to Miami 🎉!!! Kobe Bryant was asked why he wore the #10 for the Olympic Games, and he said to represent the greatest athlete of all time--Lionel Messi!!

[@DavidHernandez-hj5gt]

Pro players from other sports here in the US are going to want to also purchase tickets just to see MESSI!! OMG

[@MSOTV-ug4ln]

Messi is the Goat!!!!

[@ducatarina]

Thanks to King Goat Pelé the one who put football in a mediocre country like Usa, Pelé is the greatest footballer of all time

[@ducatarina]

1- Pelé 2- Lionel Messi 3- Diego Maradona 4- Cristiano Ronaldo 5- Johan Cruyff

[@ramrm1460]

Messi 🐐 is a icon, he is a brand himself, he is a football itself ❤

[@thedon897]

i love Stephen A saying “could you imagine load management happening in europe” As someone who was born in Italy i can say that shit would NOT slide😭😂😂

[@mikehank2896]

Load management does happen though, it’s called squad rotation

[@fabriziomercado5925]

But its very rarely, Messi didnt rest too mucho in his career

[@fabriziomercado5925]

Messi is forefeiting 1.5 billions in Arábia deal

[@fabiani3305]

i really hope he got some passion/motivation left. He's 36 soon and won everything the sport has to offer. I don`t think he can live up to the expectations anymore. i pity everybody who missed young/prime Messi. Best ever for sure.

[@isheanmmo9357]

"Messi is a competitive animal" - Pep

[@magnusolsson28]

Messi is just incredible, he has all the trophys team or individual, the longevity to play at the top for 15+ years, the stats to back both his peak and longevity as immaculate and the eye test pass for how incredible the thinks he does is.

[@TheGegemon23]

Messi is the ultimate GOAT

[@pedrofernandez7298]

He has the best resume in the game for those that care about stats.

[@wako2015]

I kinda wanted Messi to head back to Barcelona but I'm happy with his decision to get out of Europe. After winning the WC I'm not sure he has anything else to prove. He's gonna go down as one of the 🐐 it was truly a joy to watch him play all theses years good luck champ in your new endeavors 😎

[@YesuMwami]

Coup de chapeau to you Stephen A Smith. You have been so great in covering the NBA and the NFL but now as you talk about Soccer and just speak so majestically about the Greatest of All Time in Soccer History... As a Real Madrid fan, I respect your work Sir. Thank you for mentioning his name so respectfully.

[@hooman6305]

FOOTBALL

[@AGE_97]

Nice work Stephen A. You've done Messi justice with this video. Respect. That's all i have to say.

[@yankostanchev2102]

More soccer from now on Stephen A, PLEASE! Amazing!

[@azurewaterbottlingofflorid5607]

The difference between the last statement and my view, which I’m sure many around the world would share. As an American I understand the point of you, however, there is no player in any American sport right now that is as undisputedly the GOAT like Messi. The records he owns and the fact he just won the WC and is still playing. He’s great enough to play in the next one too. He’s a once in a lifetime type of player. The GOAT.

[@yanielmendez7920]

SAS said the PSG league 😂😂😂. Respect for at least speaking about it lol.

[@savydowden624]

Many people may not comprehend what Messi is to football especially in Europe. Not even just in Europe but globally. Messi is so beloved that despite the fact that he is from Argentina, Brazil's rivals, Brazilians supported him and wanted him to lift the World Cup. He's a player that can EASILY compete at the top and is likely to win the Ballon D'or which is the Best player in the World award for the 8th time. Saudi Arabia has players going clearly for money with Ronaldo way passed his best and not able to compete at the highest level the way he used to but for Messi to turn down 1 Billion and go to the MLS while coming off of a World Cup and competing with the new generation of Haaland and Mbappe will revolutionise MLS and American football. Its a dream for footballers to play with him so for many who may not have been able to play for PSG or Barca as well as ex teammates, USA may now sound more inviting than it did a few months ago when it was considered a retirement home and questionable such as when Insigne went to Toronto from Napoli

[@barehands9614]

Was not expecting to wake up and see SAS talking about soccer 💀. Him saying PSG league is exactly the reason why😂😂, but if u think about it another way Ligue 1 is basically the psg league so he still right.

[@hooman6305]

FOOTBALL

[@ryannobora]

I like Stephen A Smith because he talks true facts

[@ishyameru6232]

Oh my god bro IM GOING TO WATCH HIM IN PERSON 🤦🏾‍♂️

[@Herb..StateOfGeorgiaOwnsFSU]

Although I'm not particularly fond of soccer, I firmly believe that Messi deserves a contract that surpasses any American athlete's. His influence and impact on the sport are unparalleled, making him a larger-than-life figure that outshines any current American sports star by a significant margin.

[@costar155]

I always knew this was going to come, years ago I commented about this; however I always thought that both Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi would one day come to play in the USA, but I always thought it would be Cristiano though, great news for the MLS, but especially for Inter Miami, 👍❤️⚽️. Pura Vida

[@angelrivera-sj6gk]

Messi has become the actual personification of LEGENDARY!!! It's what American soccer needs to boost the love for the sport for ALL Americans!!!

[@stoyandeenichin3757]

SAS please do a weekly full hour football show it will be comedy gold :D

[@frankt2782]

Messi the goat has landed ready for taking anything and everything one knows when he plays for Arg or returns to Europe he will be again the Balon D' Or winner

[@marvinmesh7948]

It’s a Huge deal Steven A . thanks for talking about it

[@guapshonen]

Messi finna tear it up I can't lie

[@teewilliams4520]

Stephen A Smith with the 🔥🔥 no clowning with this one

[@fernmachine3778]

He will fill every stadium he lays foot in; tickets will sell within hours and people will chant his name after every goal he scores. Every single fan of the sport, especially from the last 10 years is absolutely obsessed with Messi. Americans do not understand the dimension of Messi, the Ronaldo vs Messi rivalry we witnessed this past decade. They will realize Beckham doesn't even come close to the impact Messi will bring. Inter Miami need to surround him with a good capable team now.

[@thomasjacob5048]

That last attempt at pronouncing Paris Saint-Germain was actually not that far off Steven A 😂 Props to you from a French speaker 👌🏽

[@alieNussss]

You right Stephen. Ive watched before MLS nd on video they had around 20k views. Now almost every video have more than 2 millions views. Its crazy, the impact Messi had in the MLS. I am from europe and i love football. Messi is the best ever. Football in europe is a religion and Messi is the priest.

[@Chilango89]

This is crazy a player like Messi playing here in states no other athlete compares to this man and the crazy contract that he just sign and the crazy bonuses that attached to his contract.

[@zamora1084]

S.A.S mad props for covering this and making it a big deal!

[@SaulGoodman75018]

We appreciate you Stephen A to talk about this the way it should be. We understand that a lot of americans dont have a clue about how much of a superstar Lionel Messi is (thats just crazy to me btw) but you absolutly need to know something when you talk about him. Messi is the greatest football player of all time and if you're not an expert of football, you better choose your words very wisely when it comes to comparison. Messi should be respected as much as MJ is in America. He's 35 now, dont expect him to run on the pitch like he was 25... Just sayin

[@ducatarina]

Thanks to King Goat Pelé the one who put football in a mediocre country like Usa, Pelé is the greatest footballer of all time

[@rmd4379]

He is the greatest player

[@ducatarina]

Pele´is the greatest player, Messi is Top 2 he never will pass the king of football, the inventor of the beatiful game and 3 times world cup winner the one who put football in your mediocre country Usa

[@rmd4379]

@@ducatarina how many games did you watch of pele. Your words look like compare Bill Russell to Michael Jordan.

[@basedboys17]

Messi is the goat 🐐

[@Nelson_QN]

Qué duro Messi pa’ Miami. 💪🏽

[@stoitchkokokolachev2302]

The GREATEST PLAYER WHO EVER TOUCH A SOCCER ⚽️ BALL ☝️❤️😁😌 The LITTLE BOY FROM - ROSARIO ARGENTINA 🇦🇷 WHO DEFINED -- ALL THE ODDS ‼️‼️‼️ THE GOAT 🐐 ⚽️❤️❤️❤️ Lionel Messi ❤️🇦🇷⚽️🙏😌

[@ducatarina]

Pelé is the greatest footballer the one who trancended this sport, won 3 world cups, scored 1283 goals, was named athlete of the century, player of the century

[@Biased2]

People talking about Jordan vs Messi in the comments, you guys don't get it. Jordan was incredible but Messi's in another bracket - he's the best scorer in soccer history and the best creator, he dribbles like nobody else (other than maradona) and strikes the ball (shoots) better than anyone. Best way to describe Messi would be to imagine if LeBron could shoot like Steph or if MJ could pass like magic that's genuinely Messi in basketball terms. He would be greatest scorer and creator we've seen> He's as close as you'll get to the perfect athlete for the sport.

[@ducatarina]

Thanks to King Goat Pelé the one who put football in a mediocre country like Usa, Pelé is the greatest footballer of all time.... Messi has no chance against Jordan when we talk about the greatest athletes is Pele, Ali and Jordan

[@msanm5]

@@ducatarina You're in all comments talking about Pele, shut up. Messi is and will always be the greatest of all time. Pele and Maradona are 2nd and 3rd.

[@biz4twobiz463]

MESSI is the GOAT!! He's coming to USA and will change soccer forever. He will influence younger generations...and because of that, I predict USA will win World Cup!! Merci

[@ducatarina]

The GOAT, King of football put football in Usa in the 70s lol Usa is a mediocre country when comes to football never will win nothing, delusional boy

[@richardcoreno]

The merch sales are going to be astronomical.

[@-Big_Mo-]

Treat him right guys. Football will miss him dearly.

[@Icarus6783]

The United States , China and Saudi Arabia are retirement locations for great players ending their careers. We all know the pattern, its all about the bag now. Barca wanted him back but they could not afford him. All the same congrats to the city of Miami for bagging Messi!

[@wckdaintgood]

Bro the only reason players go to China or Saudi is for the money. If he wanted the money then he would’ve clearly went to Saudi 😂. Use your brain

[@cx34]

If Messi was all about the bag, then why did he turn down over a billion dollars in Saudi Arabia to come to Miami? It isn’t only about money for Messi… massive props to him for not being a sellout.

[@dnn32]

​@@cx34 you really think he would go there😂😂😂. Qatar will never accept it, there is a hate/competition btw qatar and saudi arabia. Qatar has sponsored messi for years since his barca days compared to Saudis who had just started to lure him. Messi must accept everything Qatar asks him to do

[@cx34]

@@dnn32 Not once in my reply did I say or insinuate that.

[@poptraxx418]

@@cx34 he is still making godly amount of money in the us don't act like he didn't move here because of the money you would be lying to your self if he wanted to stay in Europe he would have taken a pay cut but he doesn't want to do that

[@millsy1544]

Messi a star not only in Europe but Asia hence why Saudi league wants him but South America and in the USA to those who know football he a superstar

[@plutobaby9996]

There are more Messi fans in LA than Miami idk how they couldn’t get him over here

[@Justa5point0]

You want everything in LA you can keep Lebron

[@joelm7547]

Latinos From other countries love Miami. I’m sure his wife had a lot to do with him going to Miami.

[@gogousa6661]

Lebron is in Miami too

[@OfficialCityStand]

Miami is a nicer city and more Spanish heritage. LA just has more people hence more fans but there is more dedication to football in Miami.

[@sjerome]

"The Miami Team" 😆 🤣 we don't even know what it's called

[@mohammadshah1065]

I wish Stephen A would make more soccer content like this

[@user-sq5py7bb7h]

Messi is a top 3 football player of all time,arguably the goat. Try to imagine an nba player with kyrie or ai handles,shooting of ray allen and vision and playmaking of steve nash. Hes the whole package.

[@Ddzviti]

I appreciate Steven A covering this and for someone who doesn’t follow soccer that well, he has done his research well, load management doesn’t exist. For players that “load manage” they get scrutinized badly, look at Eden hazard. Football fans don’t wanna hear that sh*t. Now with the World Cup coming, Man Messi to the US is big time, like big time. There’s a reason no other American sports player has received a deal like this. Because he is that dude. CR7 could have been but Messi is that dude, and inter Miami wing the MLS Cup, prepare for ESPN or FS1 on his nuts. I think he believes he is going away from the media attention, but what he might not understand is that American media will be following his behind severely. More than CR7 in Saudi.

[@hooman6305]

FOOTBALL

[@axebul.2366]

Messi is now the biggest Name that the US sports have to offer and that is a fact

[@NeilLewis77]

The champions of spain wanted him to start all of their games next season.

[@RColo74]

“He’s the real deal” LOL

[@vb2388]

I don’t think USA let alone Miami realise that they just got The Greatest Athlete in Sports History.. Messi has done it all and won it all and is easily the Most Talented Player in Football History

[@TheIndependentRapUploader]

Not 🏈 history but ⚽ history..

[@vb2388]

@@TheIndependentRapUploader yes, that is what I said

[@TheIndependentRapUploader]

@@vb2388 Football is 🏈.. Futbol is ⚽.

[@johnson2290]

@@TheIndependentRapUploader dumb boy

[@RicardoMango]

Not easily. USA had Pele back in the 70s. What Messi won with 35.... Pele won with only 16!!! The world cup. And more 2 other ones. But of course. At the time without media, and the management that the MLS have today. They couldn't make "soccer" being a cultural thing in USA. But respect the athele of the century. If Messi is Lebron. Pele is Jordan.

[@user-mu6du8tu8f]

Whenever stephen decides to actually learn about football is when football will become big in the usa fr, he's a genius sport presenter/commentator

[@og2484]

Football or Soccer may not be Stephen A Smith’s thing, but he is absolutely spot on about load management.

[@mikehank2896]

Load management does exist in Europe, 38+ games, minimum 60 minutes, 5 subs(used to be 3), and needing them to be fresh for the next game, I don’t watch basketball as much so maybe they are mad because it’s players saying they want to sit out

[@Ddzviti]

I really hope SaS speaks on this on first take, and the impact on this for sports in general, because yes soccer will grow in the US, but now players, like a Haaland or Vini jr or mbappe going to Saudi for a couple of years and come back, to get the bag, they will start to look at America as a potential spot even in their prime because America to be honest offers a lot of endless possibilities. CR7 went to Saudi and he wants out. This is big for soccer because so many players are now free agents and it used to be oh I’m can go to Saudi or MLS, but now if the goat is going g to MLS then I can do it, which will make MLS a big big organization, and key words - World CUP in 2026. Like we all don’t understand how huge this is, for football fans and America in general

[@user-yd3fk3lh9p]

I dont watch any mls games ... but ill watch all messi games ... goat

[@Adam-kt3mu]

The G.O.A.T. is here!!!

[@ducatarina]

Pelé died bro, the number 2 of all time Messi is here

[@Adam-kt3mu]

@@ducatarina Pele? He was a great player but def not the goat. Lol

[@supay6537]

This dude is easy to hate but a lot easy to love, great!!!!!

[@kvngjay54]

He’s not a superstar. HES THE SUPERSTAR. He is now the most famous athlete in America. He’s the Greatest to ever grace the game. He is the chest master. We’re just the pawns

[@Resilientspirit18]

“We’re just the pawns “💀chill I like messi to but push it back abit with the meat riding

[@ducatarina]

Pelé is the greatest player, Messi is here only because Pele made football popular here

[@jvaikido1]

2026 World Cup is around the corner. And Messi will be participating with the current World Champions Argentina. Yes Messi is the GOAT.

[@losramos3021]

"Virtual G league" is actually an analogy that is kind to the MLS. Don't get me wrong the MLS has made strides these past few years that have to be respected. However those leagues in Europe have their own academies where they develop their youth, if you wanted too look for the closest thing to a G league in that world. Matter of fact, Messi is a product of Barcelona's youth academy. Even then, in terms of development leagues that are exporting players to Europe, you'd look at South America and Africa before you'd even consider the MLS being a "virtual G league" to Europe. Although I assume SAS was referring to the gap in talent rather than the works of the system when he made that analogy.

[@alexgordon9508]

Oh he’s definitely scoring 5 goals every game

[@theemotionalremix]

Thanks for the clarification. I didn't realize that the MLS was this garbage.

[@allydr90]

I mean MLS is on average as good as the Champions League in England where it is kind of like a G-League (although the relegation system makes this league different since they can fight to join the premier League). But I think G League comparison is fair. In Basketball, the Euroleague is better than the US's G-League (in my humble opinion). So think of it as not second best in the world but second best league in a country that has the best league in the world.

[@PhilHug1]

2:27 at first, i thought the quote said "carnal." I was about to be like "whoa, Messi is a wild boy" 😂

[@Mretroo]

The best athlete in the world is in America..... Let that sink in 🐐

[@vb2388]

Best Athlete of all Time 🐐

[@mycoshe]

Playing for Inter Miami! Let THAT sink in.

[@treyjohnson8557]

He’s definitely not the best anymore but still close to the top. A great get for the mls and America but I don’t see this propelling the league much at all except with viewership early on.

[@djemayel8907]

Lebron James? Giannis ?

[@Mike-ud6hd]

@@djemayel8907 There is much more to athleticism than height and strength, if you watched any other sports you'd know that.

[@dillingersam588]

MESSI IS A GOD