Javier Mascherano compares Lionel Messi to Michael Jordan after masterclass vs. NY Red Bulls
Lionel Messi once again defied Father Time with a dazzling performance in Inter Miami’s comeback win over the New York Red Bulls, further cementing his legacy as one of the greatest athletes in history. His continued brilliance prompted head coach Javier Mascherano to compare the Argentine icon to basketball legend Michael Jordan.
Like MJ in the NBA, Messi has ushered in a new era in soccer—shattering records, collecting trophies, winning individual accolades, and reshaping the way the game is played and defended. That level of respect was on full display at a packed Red Bull Arena, filled with both Red Bulls and Inter Miami fans. When asked about the attention Messi still commands, Mascherano reflected on his experience as a longtime teammate.
“It’s not a surprise because I had the chance to be around him for eight years at Barcelona and over 15 with the national team as a teammate. Everywhere he goes, especially places where he hasn’t been regularly, people go crazy. Not just in stadiums—I’ve seen it happen in airports, hotels—he creates all this buzz,” he said at the post-match press conference.
“The admiration is total, but I don’t think it’s only because of the kind of soccer player he is,” Mascherano continued.” I also believe he’s an example of what it means to be an athlete, and he goes beyond just our sport—soccer. I think anyone who is a fan, not just of soccer but of sports in general, feels admiration for athletes like him, whether it’s Leo Messi, Michael Jordan in his time, or Rafa Nadal,” the coach stated.
“They’re people who go beyond their sport, and honestly, those of us who get to experience this up close are very privileged,” Mascherano concluded, reflecting on Messi’s cultural and sporting impact.
Messi shines again against a familiar opponent
Following their run in the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup, Inter Miami had been riding a strong wave of form until a 3–0 midweek loss to FC Cincinnati. Eager to bounce back, Messi once again rose to the occasion against one of his favorite MLS opponents.
After Inter Miami conceded the opening goal, Messi responded with a pinpoint assist to Jordi Alba and added two composed finishes of his own. With one assist and two goals on the night, Messi climbed to the top of the MLS scoring chart with 18 goals. And with this being his fourth appearance against the Red Bulls, he now boasts five goals and seven assists in those matchups—proof that the Bulls continue to be one of his favorite victims in the league.