Lionel Messi Sets the Tone as Inter Miami Chase MLS Cup and Leagues Cup Glory

‘Win Everything’: Messi inspires Inter Miami’s title hunt as Leagues Cup campaign begins

Lionel Messi doesn’t talk much. He doesn’t need to. His presence, his touch, his vision—those speak louder than any speech ever could. And when he does talk, teammates listen.

This summer, Messi’s message to Inter Miami has been clear: win everything. It’s a mindset that’s quickly taken hold across the Herons’ dressing room as they continue to navigate a packed calendar with multiple trophies on the line. Fresh off a 5-1 dismantling of New York Red Bulls, Inter Miami are flying—and their ambitions are soaring with them.

While July has tested their physical limits with five MLS matches in just 15 days, there’s no sign of slowing down. With the Leagues Cup set to begin shortly, Messi and company are showing no signs of fatigue. Quite the opposite—they’re growing stronger.

Messi and Segovia Lead the Charge in Red Bulls Rout

Inter Miami’s latest statement came on Saturday evening when they welcomed the New York Red Bulls to DRV PNK Stadium—and promptly sent them packing with a five-goal lesson.

Lionel Messi was, of course, at the heart of it all. He scored twice, continuing his red-hot form, and once again showcased why he’s still the most influential player in the game, even at 37. His first goal was vintage Messi: a clever run, a perfect touch, and a clinical finish. His second? Pure anticipation and composure in front of goal.

But the night wasn’t just about the GOAT. Telasco Segovia, the 21-year-old Venezuelan midfielder, also netted a brace and looked every bit the rising star Inter Miami hoped he’d become when they brought him in. Jordi Alba added his name to the scoresheet too, reinforcing just how dangerous this Miami side is when firing on all cylinders.

“We showed today that we’re serious,” Segovia said after the match. “With Messi, the best of all time, we believe we can win everything. That’s our mentality—no excuses. We’ll recover well, and we’re already thinking about what’s next.”

The Bigger Picture: Inter Miami Targeting an Unprecedented Double

New York Red Bulls v Inter Miami CF Messi

The Herons have already tasted silverware under Messi’s reign. The Leagues Cup triumph last season was the club’s first-ever major trophy—and it came just weeks after Messi’s arrival. That victory lit a fire inside the squad, and now, they’re chasing more.

Miami want the MLS Cup. They want a second Leagues Cup. And maybe more.

While some teams crumble under a demanding fixture list, Tata Martino’s side seems to thrive in the chaos. In July alone, they’ve navigated high-stakes league games, dealt with injuries, squad rotations, and soaring expectations. Through it all, they’ve stayed focused.

The team now prepares for three Leagues Cup group stage matches between July 31 and August 7. They’ve drawn tricky opponents, but with Messi at the helm and momentum on their side, Miami believe they can go all the way.

Messi’s Influence Goes Beyond the Scoreline

Paris Saint-Germain v Inter Miami CF: Round Of 16 – FIFA Club World Cup 2025

What’s perhaps most fascinating about Messi’s impact in Miami isn’t just the goals or assists. It’s the culture shift. This isn’t the same team that struggled to find consistency before his arrival. This is a group that believes in itself, that plays with freedom, and that expects to win.

Messi has raised the standard in every corner of the club—from the training ground to match day. Veterans are sharper. Young players like Segovia are braver. The fanbase is louder.

And then there’s his chemistry with former Barcelona teammates like Jordi Alba and Sergio Busquets, which has added experience and elegance to the team’s spine. It’s a familiar formula built in Catalonia, now flourishing in Florida.

What’s Next for Inter Miami?

Inter Miami’s next stop is an MLS clash with FC Cincinnati on July 27—a match that will serve as a final tune-up before their Leagues Cup campaign kicks off just days later.

Cincinnati, one of the stronger sides in the East, won’t be an easy opponent. But for Miami, every match right now is a test of character and endurance. It’s a balancing act between rotation and rhythm, rest and readiness.

If they can keep up their current form, there’s a real chance this squad could be lifting two more trophies by the end of the year.

Segovia’s Rise and the Depth Behind the Stars

While Messi naturally draws the spotlight, players like Segovia are quietly shaping Inter Miami’s future. The young midfielder’s performance against New York was more than just two goals—it was a sign that Miami’s depth is evolving.

In a tournament-packed season, squad depth is critical. Injuries will come. Fatigue is inevitable. What separates contenders from champions is the ability to call on players like Segovia to step up when needed.

The Herons have spent smartly, blending global icons with South American promise and MLS-ready veterans. It’s a recipe that’s delivering results, and one that gives Miami a chance to dream big.

A Winning Mentality Worth Believing In

“Win everything.” That phrase could easily be dismissed as a soundbite—something fans put on banners or players say after a big win. But when it comes from Lionel Messi, it means more.

He’s won it all: World Cups, Champions Leagues, Ballon d’Ors. He knows what it takes. And right now, Inter Miami are listening.

The journey to those trophies won’t be easy. There will be stumbles, maybe even heartbreak. But one thing’s clear—Messi didn’t come to Miami to fade into retirement. He came to build something.

And with the Leagues Cup on the horizon and the MLS Cup within reach, Inter Miami are dreaming as big as ever. Under Messi’s leadership, those dreams suddenly seem a lot more real.