16 October 2023 , 22:50
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Zlatan Ibrahimovic has hailed Lionel Messi's impact on the popularity of soccer in the US, while making reference to his infamous 'baseball' quote he made after leaving MLS.
The retired forward enjoyed a sensational two-year spell at the LA Galaxy, scoring 52 goals in 56 games after arriving from Manchester United. Upon leaving the US in 2019, the outspoken Swedish superstar credited the experience with MLS for reigniting his love of the game.
Now, he has given his verdict on the landmark arrival of Messi at Inter Miami, which has captured the imaginations of the American public. Sitting down for an interview with La Gazzetta della Sport's 'Festival della Sport', he has expressed his delight for fans of the sport in the country.
Of course, stadiums across the country have been packed out with enthusiastic supporters and A-List celebrities alike, with 'Messi Mania' having gripped the nation. Addressing the phenomenon, he said: "I'm happy for them. They can watch soccer again. When I left, they started watching baseball".
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The World Cup winner's star power has been plain to see after joining the Herons, with tickets to see him in action having sold out in record time. His memorable debut saw him score a last-minute winner with reality TV star Kim Kardashian and basketball hero LeBron James watching on.
The 36-year-old's influence was also on show when Miami played Los Angeles FC back in September, with a staggering 38 famous faces in attendance. The Herons would win the game 3-1, with Prince Harry and Hollywood actor Leonardo DiCaprio among the spectators.
Ibrahimovic's comments are seemingly in direct reference to his previous claim regarding his time at LA, in which he made a joke about the popularity of soccer in the States. Signing off after two years at Dignity Health Sports Park, he quipped: "I came, I saw, I conquered.
Prince Harry was spotted with a smile at the LAFC game as he watched Lionel Messi in action (Apple TV)"Thank you LA Galaxy for making me feel alive again. To the Galaxy fans - you wanted Zlatan, I gave you Zlatan. You are welcome. The story continues. ... Now go back to watch baseball."
Such was his own impact during his short but memorable spell in MLS that he was thanked by the Californian outfit's president, Chris Klein. He said: "We would like to thank Zlatan for his contributions to the LA Galaxy and Major League Soccer."
"Since his arrival in 2018, Zlatan has positively influenced the sport of soccer in Los Angeles. We are grateful for his work ethic and passion. We thank Zlatan for his professionalism and immeasurable impact on the Los Angeles community and the soccer community in North America as a whole."