Thomas Muller fully understands the pressure of competing against Lionel Messi in a championship setting and knows what it takes to emerge victorious. The upcoming 2025 MLS Cup Final, featuring Messi and Inter Miami against Muller and the Vancouver Whitecaps, echoes past encounters such as the 2014 World Cup Final and the 2010 World Cup Quarterfinals, where Germany triumphed both times.
On these occasions, Messi represented Argentina, joined by Inter Miami coach Javier Mascherano. While they will reunite in Fort Lauderdale this Saturday, Muller recognizes that squaring off against Messi doesn’t guarantee defeat.
“It’s not just about Messi when it comes to Thomas Muller,” he remarked following Vancouver’s 3-1 victory over San Diego in the Western Conference finals. “It’s Miami versus the Whitecaps.” He acknowledged that Miami might have more confidence in Messi due to their strong teamwork.
Messi’s thoughts about this matchup remain largely unknown, having faced Muller ten times in various contests with Messi’s team winning only thrice. Inter Miami rarely provides him for interviews, keeping his perspective under wraps.
What’s clear is that Messi joined Inter Miami in mid-2023 intending to clinch the MLS Cup, a goal that once seemed improbable given the team’s last-place standing when he signed. A victory this Saturday would mark the completion of his mission, rewarding him with the Golden Boot as the league’s top scorer and potentially a second consecutive MVP award.
“Even though he’s the greatest of all time, it’s unrealistic to expect him to win every match,” stated Mascherano after Inter Miami’s 5-1 triumph over New York City FC in the Eastern Conference finals, emphasizing the rising competition level.
The MLS finals coincide with a significant week for North American soccer, culminating in the FIFA World Cup draw in Washington, along with the inaugural Peace Prize presentation by the organization. Furthermore, MLS may announce its MVP award this week if history is any indicator.
Neither Messi nor Muller requires Saturday’s win for further recognition, having established their legacies long ago as World Cup, Champions League, and Club World Cup champions. Yet, both players seek to add another title to their accolades, with Muller joining Vancouver four months ago for this very opportunity.
“It’s thrilling to watch him,” Muller said in an interview with Apple TV following Vancouver’s victory. “I believe Miami is a very strong team. They played impressively against New York. This is a significant final that I desired, and now it’s here.”
Fan Take: This matchup represents a pivotal moment for both players and the league, as it not only showcases elite talent but also elevates MLS’s status on the global soccer stage. The outcome could influence the league’s direction and attract more fans, reinforcing soccer’s growing popularity in North America.
