Muller and Messi Prepare for MLS Cup Clash

Post by : Mina Rahman

German football luminary Thomas Muller has ignited a wave of pre-match banter with Lionel Messi as the MLS Cup final approaches. Currently with the Vancouver Whitecaps, Muller has a storied history of competing against Messi in significant European and international contests. Despite Messi's widespread acclaim as the greatest, Muller’s squads have enjoyed greater success, securing seven victories against Messi’s three.

This storied rivalry will be put to the test as the Vancouver Whitecaps take on Inter Miami in the MLS Cup final. Vancouver achieved this milestone by defeating San Diego FC 3-1 in the Western Conference Final, while Messi’s Inter Miami triumphed over New York City FC with a resounding 5-1 win.

Ahead of the clash, Muller downplayed the notion of a personal rivalry with Messi, stating the focus should be on the teams rather than individual players. In an interview with MLSsoccer.com, he remarked that Vancouver thrives on collective effort, whereas Miami relies heavily on Messi’s brilliance. “It’s not about Messi versus Thomas Muller; it’s about Miami and the Whitecaps. Perhaps they lean more on him than we do on me, because our strength lies in our unit,” he explained.

Muller also acknowledged Messi’s brilliance, calling him “the greatest player to ever grace our sport, still dazzling fans today,” and acknowledged that Messi’s presence has drawn a larger audience to Major League Soccer. He emphasized that increased attention benefits players, teams, and franchises all around.

Discussing his journey with Vancouver, Muller admitted that the team was already performing admirably prior to his arrival in August. Though their fortunes shifted slightly due to injuries and a tough summer, they remained competitive until the Concacaf final. “By the time I joined in August, they were already in a solid position. Everything was going well until the Concacaf final. The summer was tricky with injuries and a dip in form,” he reflected.