He is the best player in the world – Mario Gotze hails Lionel Messi

German striker Mario Gotze has showered praise on Lionel Messi, calling him the best player in the world. Gotze feels Messi’ signing with Inter Miami is good for Major League Soccer and the Argentine can help the sport grow in the United States.

Messi made a transfer from Paris Saint Germain in 2023 to the Herons and since then he has performed consistently for the club. However, Inter Miami lost in the round of 16 against Columbus in the Leagues Cup on Tuesday.

Meanwhile, it is well known that Inter Miami co-owner David Beckham played a key role in roping Lionel Messi.

Speaking to Transfermarkt, Gotze said, “[I pay attention to] the MLS now… how they grow the sport. You have all these superstars there, for example, [Lionel] Messi and [Inter Miami co-owner David] Beckham in Miami, to create that media hype around the MLS. I follow it, and I think it is a good progression, and it feels like they are ensuring a good development.”

“He is the best player in the world. He has been good for the MLS and his club. And I think it was a good move for him as well. I think it is a win-win situation for everyone involved.”

Messi has scored 25 goals and provided 16 assists in 29 appearances for the club.

Meanwhile, Gotze revealed Inter Miami contacted him in 2020 for a move but the deal could not be finalised.

“No, that was the case. I was 28 back then, and my contract in Dortmund ran out [in the summer of 2020]. I was in touch with the guys at Inter Miami. We spoke about it then, and it was a possibility. Yup, [it was more than a rumor].”

Gotze, who came on as a substitute in the FIFA World Cup 2014 final against Argentina and scored the winning goal, is open to the idea of moving to the States.

“I have said a couple of times that I really like the United States. We travel there often with the family. We have been to [Los Angeles], New York, and Miami, along the East and the West Coast. It is very interesting, especially also with the 2026 FIFA World Cup. So, it is on my mind. But I have a contract with Frankfurt for two more years, and the upcoming season is the main focus.”