Inter Miami sensation could snub Lionel Messi after private chat about future
Lionel Messi's arrival at Inter Miami has raised the level of every player around him, and after his first seven matches two members of the squad have received international call-ups.
Goalkeeper Drake Callender was one of the heroes in Miami's Leagues Cup winning team, but 18-year-old midfielder Benjamin Cremaschi has also been recognised. Both players have been added to the provisional U.S. men's national team squad ahead of friendly games against Uzbekistan and Oman next month.
Callender faces tough competition in goal with Nottingham Forest duo Matt Turner and Ethan Horvath, while both Zach Steffen and Sean Johnson are also senior options. Cremaschi's path is not as clear, as he is yet to choose his international allegiance and his decision has become even tougher since Messi arrived.
Cremaschi was born in the United States but is of Argentine descent, meaning he is eligible to represent either country. The 18-year-old has also discussed the matter with Messi, and it could sway his decision.
The midfielder has represented the U.S. U23's already, and has a fine record with two goals in three games. He's also not in an immediate rush to make a decision, as because the upcoming USMNT games are friendlies he won't be tied down to the nation.
Only when Cremaschi makes a competitive appearance for either nation will his future be decided, meaning he can use his time with the USMNT as a trial period - assuming he makes the final squad. Cremaschi has already been trying to make a decision though, something that became harder after consulting current World Cup champion with Argentina, Messi.
"Not easy, but not thinking about it right now," Cremaschi said to TUDN USA. "I’ve been in contact with both federations and I know it’s a decision I eventually have to make but there’s time. I’ve spoken about it with Messi, he has asked me and I love Argentina."
Cremaschi has improved his game since Messi arrived in Miami (2023 Getty Images) Cremaschi has been incredible for Miami since Messi arrived, and the duo automatically have chemistry due to their heritage. Miami is also coached by former Argentina manager Gerardo Martino, meaning it's likely his advice will be biased too.
The midfielder only signed a homegrown contract with Miami last November, after appearing for their Miami II side in MLS Next Pro. Cremaschi has featured for the U.S. youth teams since U19 level, but also has been recognised by Argentina too.
In December he was called up to the Argentina under-20s for a training camp before their 2023 South American U-20 Championship, showing that there was interest long before Messi joined. Now that Messi is there, he could have some influence within the senior side.
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