It’s been over a year since Lionel Messi began his journey in Major League Soccer, and David Beckham, the co-owner of Inter Miami, continues to be amazed by the signing of the Argentine World Cup champion.

Beckham, who joined the MLS in 2007 after a remarkable career in Europe, highlighted the primary factor that attracted Messi to Inter Miami back in July 2023.

“His main priority was to find a location where his family could thrive and enjoy a wonderful life. That was crucial for Leo,” Beckham commented while attending Stella Artois’ “Let’s Do Dinner” event this Thursday in New York. “Honestly, from the first moment he arrived in Miami, it has been like a dream.”

“To think that we have signed the greatest player ever to play the game is incredible. Everyone has their thoughts on who is the best player of all time—whether it’s Diego Maradona, Pele, or other legends.”

“To claim that the greatest player to ever play the game is here in MLS, in Miami, it’s just surreal, you know? It feels like a dream every time I’m around him,” Beckham went on. “During the whole summer, I spent four weeks there, going to training every single day because, frankly, I can’t believe we have Leo. On top of that, I just want to witness his skills. That’s a truly special experience for us.”

Beckham is set to be present at the match on Saturday as Messi and Inter Miami take on New York City FC at Yankee Stadium. This will be Messi’s third game back after recovering from an ankle injury sustained in the Copa America final, which Argentina won on July 11.

Messi’s arrival in MLS has proven to be a massive success for him, Inter Miami, and the league overall. He holds the top spot for the highest jersey sales in the MLS for the second year running, and Inter Miami currently leads the MLS standings, closely aiming for the Supporters’ Shield as the best record in 2024.