I have been waiting for this moment - Messi reveals mission after winning MLS Cup

Lionel Messi has described Inter Miami’s first-ever MLS Cup triumph as a “beautiful, emotional moment” after helping his side seal a 3-1 victory over the Vancouver Whitecaps.

The Argentine superstar was instrumental once again, providing two assists and guiding the David Beckham-owned franchise to the pinnacle of Major League Soccer for the first time in the club’s short history.

Messi set up compatriots Rodrigo De Paul and Tadeo Allende, who each scored to secure the trophy for Miami.

Following the final whistle, the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner expressed his delight.

“This is the moment that I’ve been waiting for, and that we as a team have been waiting for,” Messi told ESPN.

He added, “This was the real objective, to win MLS and be at the top of the American league, and luckily we achieved it… so we have to enjoy it.”

Since joining Inter Miami from Paris Saint-Germain, Messi has transformed the club both on and off the pitch.

The former Barcelona star has scored 11 goals in 14 appearances across all competitions, including a sensational 10-goal run during Inter Miami’s Leagues Cup triumph earlier in the season.

Messi admitted the team had worked tirelessly toward this moment.

“We are very happy to be champions. We all did our best so our club could achieve titles and give joy to our people tonight,” he added.