DeAndre Yedlin makes Lionel Messi quip after brutal Inter Miami trade

06 March 2024 , 12:46

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DeAndre Yedlin has left behind Lionel Messi and co. at Inter Miami as he embarks on a new chapter in his career at an MLS rival (Image: Getty)

DeAndre Yedlin has outlined his excitement as he prepares to link up with another 'special Argentinian' after leaving Lionel Messi behind in Miami following his move to FC Cincinnati.

The former Premier League defender completed a surprise switch to TQL Stadium this week, bringing his two-season stay at Inter Miami to a close in the process. A victim of David Beckham's unbridled ambition for his MLS outfit, the ex-Tottenham man is set for a new chapter after he was traded in return for $172,799 in General Allocation Money.

Playing his last game alongside Messi, Luis Suarez and Sergio Busquets in a 5-0 demolition job against Orlando City at the weekend, it appears that Yedlin has quickly come to terms with the call. The move means that the USMNT international is returning to a part of the world he holds dear.

Having previously played for the University of Akron during his college years in Ohio, his return to the region sees him essentially come full circle. Speaking after completing his switch to Cincinnati, the former Newcastle right-back appeared excited to get down to business with his new club.

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At a press conference after sealing the deal, Cincy's new No. 91 earmarked the team's talisman Luciano Acosta as someone he is looking forward to playing alongside. Yedlin made reference to Messi in his opening address.

"It's interesting. I don't think you see it happening that often," he said. "It's exciting. It's a new experience. There's obviously great players on this team. There's another special Argentinian '10' that we have as well (Luciano Acosta), he said, namechecking last year's MLS MVP.

"Excited to get to work with him and see what he's able to do," he continued, as he talked up the attacking midfielder's qualities before praising some familiar faces. "With Matt (Miazga) and Miles (Robinson), I've played with them before, so I know the types of players they are."

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DeAndre Yedlin alluded to Lionel Messi as he lavished praise on his new teammate

Remarking on what he can bring to his new team, he also went into more detail about some of his ambitions after making the move. He continued: "I know how important that position is and how much value the team puts on it," Yedlin said. "I think for any player, you obviously want to be in a position of value.

"(But) I like to think of myself as a pretty selfless player. I don't care if I get a goal or assist as long as the team's winning. That's all really all I care about. So, I try to be as much of a leader as I can and really put my team before myself."

Showing his leadership qualities as he made a vow to his new teammates, Yedlin added: "I think that's probably the most important thing. I just want to work with everyone, work together as a team, and all move in the same direction as one."

Tom Beattie