MIAMI — Brazilian midfielder Casemiro has described Lionel Messi as the “god of football,” expressing his excitement about joining Inter Miami to assist the Argentine forward in his quest for more trophies in his illustrious career.
Casemiro joined Inter Miami last week as a free agent, signing a contract that lasts until the end of the 2027 MLS season, with an option for an extension until June 2029.
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The 34-year-old revealed that he had multiple options for continuing his career after departing Manchester United at the conclusion of last season, but the opportunity to play in Miami alongside the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner Messi was the most enticing choice.
“For me, without a doubt, I am coming only to play with the best player of all time,” he stated at his introductory press conference on Thursday. “I want to enjoy this experience and help him keep winning because he is a true champion. I am another player who is here to win and compete.”
“I am exactly where I want to be in MLS. I left United as a free agent and had offers from Italy and other clubs, but I am here… I want to relish this time with him, help him win, and contribute to his legacy. He is one of the, if not the, god of football, and I want to assist him.”
Since Messi’s arrival at Miami in 2023, the team has clinched the 2023 Leagues Cup trophy, the 2024 Supporters’ Shield, and the 2025 MLS Cup.
Casemiro previously spent nine seasons at Real Madrid, which meant he often faced Messi’s Barcelona team, their biggest rivals.
“The trouble Messi caused me was immense, and of course I always dreamed of playing with him,” Casemiro shared. “I always aspired to challenge myself alongside the best. I could never contain him alone; I constantly required support from my teammates. Now, I am delighted to be on the same team as him, and my goal is to win together.”
Casemiro made his debut for Inter Miami on Saturday night in Canada during a 1-0 win against CF Montreal. He is now set to play at home, Nu Stadium, this Saturday, taking on the Columbus Crew.
The defending MLS champions have secured victories in their last two matches since the league resumed following the World Cup, placing them second in the Eastern Conference and in the Supporters’ Shield standings with 37 points—just two points behind leader Nashville SC.
Messi has not played for Inter Miami since the World Cup, where he netted eight goals and helped lead Argentina to its second consecutive final, ultimately losing 1-0 to Spain. The 37-year-old has returned from a break in Argentina and resumed training in Miami on Wednesday, although it remains uncertain when he will rejoin the team for games.
Casemiro also participated in the World Cup, playing all five matches for a Brazil team that faced a disappointing exit against Norway in the round of 16.