Lionel Messi has admitted he's "learning a lot" about the NFL after becoming one of America's biggest sporting stars.
Messi, 36, joined Major League Soccer (MLS) team Inter Miami last summer after leaving European football. The Argentina captain has made a huge impression on the United States since joining David Beckham's franchise, putting the MLS back in the spotlight.
Although Messi is one of the most adored athletes on the planet, American football is the biggest sport in the United States. The Barcelona legend has made a conscious effort to learn more about the game and it's major league, the NFL, since joining Miami.
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"Tennis, padel, basketball and American football," Messi told the Big Time Podcast when asked about his favourite sports. "I'm learning a lot about American football, getting to know it better, and loving it."
Messi's admission will make him even more popular in the United States. Although he's struggled with injuries since moving to Florida - with a leg complaint currently keeping him out of action - the forward has already made a huge impact across the pond.
He hit the ground running at Miami by inspiring them to victory in the Leagues Cup final last season, earning the team their first ever major trophy. Miami also reached the US Open Cup final but lost 2-1 to Houston Dynamo, with Messi out injured.
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American football is the most popular sport in the United States (Erick W. Rasco/Sports Illustrated via Getty Images)Messi finished his first half-season at Miami with 11 goals in 14 games. Much is expected of him this term, with Miami the favourites to win the MLS Cup. The team also includes three of Messi's old Barcelona teammates in Sergio Busquets, Jordi Alba and Luis Suarez.
Messi started the season well by scoring five goals in his first five outings. That helped Miami win three of their first five MLS games, drawing one and losing the other, but they were thumped 4-0 at New York Red Bulls last time out with their skipper unavailable.
Messi's latest injury forced him to miss Argentina's March internationals. He'll be desperate to be fit for their Copa America defence this summer, with the tournament held in the United States. As he turns 37 this year, it could well be his last dance for Argentina.
Miami boss Tata Martino doesn't expect Messi's injury to keep him out for too long. "He is overloaded on the right posterior (leg)," said Martino two weeks ago. "We don't want to run a risk. We tried to see if he could go for a little longer, but it was bothering him."
Miami's next game is at home to New York City on Saturday, with the first leg of their CONCACAF Champions Cup quarter-final against Mexican side Monterrey taking place four days later. The other teams remaining in the tournament are Columbus Crew, New England Revolution, Club America, Tigres UANL, Herediano and Pachuca.
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