Search icon

News

22nd Jun 2023

Gareth Bale questions mindset of MLS when asked about Lionel Messi’s Inter Miami move

Callum Boyle

Gareth Bale Lionel Messi

Bale had a short stint in the US with LAFC

Gareth Bale has claimed that MLS sides are happy to “accept losing” and that there is less pressure on the players in the league.

Bale was speaking after being asked about Lionel Messi’s move to Inter Miami following the expiration of his contract at Paris Saint-Germain.

Messi had been linked with a return to Barcelona but after being unable to bring the World Cup winner back to the Camp Nou due to financial troubles, the 35-year-old opted for a move to the US ahead of a big-money deal in Saudi Arabia.

The former Real Madrid and Wales forward had a brief spell in America before calling time on his career, playing for LAFC where he guided them to the MLS Cup thanks to a last-minute winner against Philadelphia Union.

However when asked how seven-time Ballon d’Or winner Messi would fare in the MLS, Bale didn’t exactly give a glowing review of what to expect.

“It is a lot more chilled (in MLS),” he told BT Sport. “If you lose at Real Madrid, it is like the world has ended.

“You are crucified. You feel down. You go home and you’re not happy.

“They accept losing a bit more (in America). There is no consequence. You can’t get relegated over there. 

“When you lose a game you go on to the next one. They accept losing a lot better over there. 

“They know how to lose but they celebrate every win like you have won the championship. He will definitely enjoy it.”

No official date has been set for when Messi will make his debut for his new side, however there is hope that he will feature against Mexican outfit Cruz Azul on July 21.

Related links: