Former Argentina star Carlos Tevez has explained his ex-international teammate Lionel Messi's reasoning for moving to MLS side Inter Miami.
The legendary 35-year-old stunned the football world by announcing his impending transfer to join David Beckham's franchise stateside, ending the chances of a emotional return to Barcelona in the process. Departing Paris Saint-Germain after winning two league titles in as many years, the move will bring the curtain down on an illustrious career in Europe which will come to be defined by a glorious 17-year stint at Barcelona.
After 42 major honours for club and country, however, a new chapter awaits the iconic winger and it appears that his decision has received the seal of approval from his compatriot Tevez. The former Manchester City forward partnered Messi up front for their national team on numerous occasions including at the World Cup in 2010 and count each other as friends.
He explained that the Rosario-born ace's decision to move to the US is one that is partially motivated by the desire to experience a new culture away from the limelight that so often followed him in Europe. Tevez told ESPN: “He loves Miami. It’s a peace of mind for him and his family.
"I think what he did was the right thing to do. And if it wasn’t Barcelona, where he knew he would once again become the center of attraction, it was nothing in Europe. The decision was made very well."
At one point it did seem likely that Messi would return to the Camp Nou, especially after the player's father and agent Jorge met with Blaugrana president Joan Laporta at his house. Following this, he confirmed his son's desire to come return to the club he served with such distinction for the majority of his club career.
However, the opportunity of a move to the US eventually won out for Messi's camp and it appears that he leaves Paris Saint-Germain with the blessing of teammate and friend Neymar. The Brazilian forward admitted that, like Tevez, he was aware of his friend's desire to play in Miami, saying to NBA Brazil's YouTube channel : "I knew that he wanted to come here [Miami], and we spoke about it."
With Inter Miami tickets having sold out within hours of the announcement of his impending arrival, it is clear that he will not exactly be anonymous when he arrives stateside. However, the chance to live in sunny climbs in the coastal city where he already owns a home has clearly proven an attractive proposition.
Neymar explained: "I told him he was going to be very happy in the city, because of the style of life, the opportunity to come to live and play here in Miami. It will be very good."
