Lionel Messi: Revealing the Incredible Journey of Inter Miami's Robert Taylor alongside the World Cup Champion
Lionel Messi's arrival at Inter Miami has been a dream come true for many at David Beckham's MLS club Rob Taylor opens up about the incredible experience of playing alongside the World Cup winner, shedding light on Messi's English learning journey, the transformative impact he has on the team, and dealing with the intense spotlight in Miami
Playing alongside Lionel Messi is a dream come true for every football fan. For Rob Taylor, who used to play for non-league Lincoln City, this dream has become a reality. Despite joining Inter Miami last year as a 28-year-old Finland international, he probably never imagined that he would have the opportunity to play alongside the iconic World Cup hero who has won seven Ballon d'Or trophies.
Taylor and Messi delivered an outstanding performance in Miami's 4-0 triumph over Atlanta last week, each scoring two goals. Taylor impressively assisted Messi in his second goal before unleashing a powerful strike to find the net himself. Unsurprisingly, when questioned about his newfound teammate, Taylor exclaimed, "It's a realization of my wildest dreams."
Due to your consent preferences, you’re not able to view this.
Open Privacy Options
"I've watched him play all my life at the highest level, and now, to play with him and to be in the same team as him is crazy," the 28-year-old told We.
You observe his daily training and playing, trying to learn from him.
His decision-making skills are extraordinary - I don't see him making a single wrong decision during games or training. So, you simply aspire to learn from him.
"He comes to me and tells me how he wants me positioned in different situations."
Is Messi learning English?
Image:
According to Lionel Messi's teammate Rob Taylor, Messi's command of the English language is quite proficient. Despite the fact that Messi has seldom conversed publicly in any language other than Spanish, Taylor suggests that we may soon have the opportunity to hear Messi speaking English.
"I'm currently learning Spanish, while he is studying English," mentioned the Finn, whose father Paul was an English player residing in Finland. "Although our conversational skills still have room for improvement, our performance on the field tells a different story."
Due to your consent preferences, you’re not able to view this.
Open Privacy Options
"I feel like football is a language where if you link up with someone, you don't necessarily have to speak the same language - you just play well together.
"I've heard him say a couple things in English to me and couple of players around him, so I think he speaks pretty good English."
How does playing with Messi change a club?
Image:
Lionel Messi is scheduled to participate in his third match for Inter Miami on Wednesday evening. Messi's presence in Miami has revitalized an already lively MLS franchise, resulting in two sold-out games at the 21,000-seat DRV PNK Stadium as fans eagerly anticipate witnessing his mesmerizing skills.
"Of course, it's brought a lot of new energy to the team, the club and the fans," said Taylor.
"The stadium is sold out, and it's really great right now.
Taylor's response for the coolest person he encountered at the recent Inter Miami matches didn't involve big names like LeBron James, Serena Williams, Kim Kardashian, IShowSpeed, or even DJ Khaled.
Image:
LA Lakers superstar LeBron James hugs Lionel Messi before the soccer legend's debut for Inter Miami
"Leo is the coolest," grinned the Argentine's fan-come-colleague.
Messi's presence has drawn the attention of several celebrities, solidifying his status as the top player. Despite this, the overall state of affairs within the club remains mostly the same. However, Taylor and his teammates appreciate the thoughtful gift from their new captain.
"I don't think there's too many changes - there's more security," said the 28-year-old.
"But, before the first game, we all got the Dr Dre Beats headphones from him, so that was really nice."
Dealing with the spotlight in Miami
Image:
Rob Taylor celebrates scoring in Inter Miami's 4-0 victory over Atlanta
Taylor, who previously faced difficulties securing regular football in England, has experienced a rapid surge in his popularity, as his Instagram followers approach the 100,000 mark.
Despite finding himself under a more intense global spotlight than he could have ever anticipated, he asserts that his life has undergone minimal changes.
Perhaps my social media following has been growing, but I am fortunate to have friends and family who keep me grounded. They remind me to stay humble and I appreciate their influence.
"I don't see it as too big of a change - I just played two games where I've scored goals.
Due to your consent preferences, you’re not able to view this.
Open Privacy Options
"There are numerous upcoming games, therefore, I must remain grounded and exert diligent effort."
Messi, Taylor, and the rest of Inter Miami will confront Orlando on Wednesday in the Leagues Cup, which is one of the two elimination tournaments they participate in alongside their MLS campaign.
Miami's No 16 will hope to continue on his journey from struggling in England to shining with Messi - quite how a "dream come true" can get better, Taylor will find out.
