Inter Miami's head coach has spoken about the moment when Lionel Messi was unhappy after a game in the United States and how he handled it.
Check Out: Mbappe: I Love Ronaldo, But...
The ex-Barcelona captain has been in fine form for the Herons since his free-agent arrival earlier this year, having contributed to 16 goals in his first 11 appearances and already won a trophy – the 2023 Leagues Cup.
Following that triumph, MLS action resumed and Messi made his debut in the competition, scoring in a 2-0 victory over New York Red Bulls, but the Argentine was unable to inspire his teammates to victory against Nashville SC a few days later.
That game ended 0-0, and manager Gerardo "Tata" Martino has admitted The Athletic that his No. 10, whom he also coached in Spain and on the international stage, admitting that the seven-time Ballon d'Or winner reacted badly to the result.
"Leo was visibly frustrated after our scoreless draw against Nashville," he said.
"I had to tell him 'relax, we're not going to win every game. We can't allow draws but we have to continue to find ways to grow.'
"He was very bitter. It was as if we had lost the game. We're still trying to find ourselves [as a team], but he's on a permanent quest to win and it's very difficult to change that mentality.
"I would never want to change that mentality either. That's what makes him better."
Check Out: Why Sancho Was Kicked Out Of Man Utd Squad 'Revealed'
Earlier this month, Messi assisted two goals as Inter Miami claimed a 3-1 win over Los Angeles FC in the MLS, while he missed his club's 3-2 victory over Kansas City this past Sunday because he was away on international duty.
You must be SIGNED IN to read and post comments
WATCH VIDEO:
