Reigning champions of Major League Soccer, Inter Miami, received an invitation from the White House to visit President Donald Trump.
As expected, football icon and global star Lionel Messi was the center of attention during the visit.
Inter Miami won the MLS Cup for the first time in their history back in December. As such, it was only befitting that they visited the country’s president.
Lionel Messi also became the first player to win the Most Valuable Player (MVP) award in two consecutive seasons.
Speaking to the media during the visit, Trump expressed satisfaction at achieving the “feat” of bringing Messi to the White House, as this was the legend’s first visit.
The Argentine star was unable to visit in January last year when he was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the highest honor the US can bestow upon a private citizen.
“It’s my distinct privilege to say what no American president has ever had the chance to say before,” Trump said.
“Welcome to the White House, Lionel Messi!” Trump stated.
Trump also claimed his son was a huge fan of the Argentine as he continued to shower accolades.
“My son [Barron] said, ‘Dad, do you know who’s going to be there today?’ I said, ‘No, I’ve got a lot of things going on.’
“He said, ‘Messi!’ He’s a big fan of yours. He thinks you’re a great person, and I think you got to meet a little while ago,” he continued.
The United States president also expressed his delight that Messi chose to play in the MLS. He weighed in on the Greatest of All Time debate as well, declaring Messi his favorite while overlooking the likes of Pele and Maradona.
“Leo claimed the 47th trophy of his incredible career — the most of all time.
“You could have gone anywhere in the world, any team in the world, and you chose Miami. I just want to thank you for bringing us all on this ride.”
Trump added: “I shouldn’t say this because I’m old, but I watched Pele play. I don’t know, you may be better than Pele. Pele was pretty good.”
