Miami's midfielder Julian Gressel recently disclosed on the "Major League Journeymen" podcast that playing alongside Lionel Messi meant there was no room for complacency. Gressel shared that Messi was adamant about not settling for ties during the season, deeming them "unacceptable." Despite the pressure, Gressel acknowledged the championship mindset Messi brought to the team.

Inter Miami CF, led by Messi, secured the Supporters' Shield in the 2024 MLS campaign, breaking the record for the most points in a single season. However, Miami succumbed to Atlanta United FC in the playoffs, ending their journey. Gressel detailed instances where tension arose within the team after subpar performances, with Messi and Luis Suárez driving the team to strive for excellence.

Facing the disappointment of postseason elimination, Gressel commented on the warning signs that had been visible leading up to Miami's playoff exit. Despite an impressive offensive record, the team's defensive vulnerabilities were glaring, underscoring areas needing improvement moving forward. Manager Gerardo Martino also announced his resignation post-season, adding to the team's challenges for the upcoming year.

While Gressel's insights shed light on the demanding environment fostered by Messi at Miami, social media reactions varied from admiration for Messi's standards to critiques of Miami's playoff shortcomings. The comments reflected on Miami's performance against Atlanta and the team dynamics during the playoffs, emphasizing the competitive nature within MLS and the differing views on the significance of draws in soccer.

As Miami prepares for the off-season, decisions regarding the roster and coaching staff loom, with the team aiming to address weaknesses highlighted during the playoffs and build on their successes from the 2024 season. The revelations made by Gressel regarding Messi's influence provide a glimpse into the elite standards set by the Argentine superstar at Inter Miami CF.

In the fast-paced world of MLS, the pressure to meet high standards remains a constant, exemplified by the drive for excellence fueled by players like Messi and the pursuit of success at the highest level of American soccer.