Despite leaving Inter Miami and securing a dream move to the Premier League, Diego Gomez will always remember one lesson Lionel Messi taught him.
Gomez has signed a deal with Brighton and Hove Albion and will be sorely missed by Inter Miami. The Paraguayan made 22 appearances during the recent MLS season where he bagged three goals and five assists.
However, it was not his attacking abilities that drew him to the Herons fans, it was his dogged determination and ball-winning skills that shone.
Gomez sent a heartfelt message to the Inter Miami fans before his departure, thanking those at the club for their support.
While it will be a big loss for Inter Miami not to have Gomez for the new MLS season he will have at least taken one thing from his time with the club.
Gomez praises Messi lessons
While praise for Lionel Messi is far from uncommon the star has received applause from several former teammates in recent months.
PSG’s Kylian Mbappe recently praised Messi’s impact on him, stating ‘You can learn everything’ from the magician.
New manager Javier Mascherano complemented Messi on his MLS impact and Leo Afonso spoke highly of Messi’s training ground influence.
Gomez became just the latest star to praise his time with Inter Miami’s star man.
Speaking to reporters, Gomez said: “Playing with him was something unique. I will carry that with me for the rest of my life. I shared the same experience with one of the greatest players in the world, and I’m happy about that. I learned a lot from Leo and all the Inter Miami players.”
It is clear to see that Messi has had a lasting impact on yet another young star.
Gomez and Messi’s record together
Not every player in each team gets on but it is clear to see that the South American duo of Gomez and Messi complemented each other well.
While Messi is often the star of the show it was Gomez who allowed the Argentine to play with freedom around the pitch.
Gomez would often mop up after Messi and Inter Miami’s talented attackers when they had lost the ball, he was a shield for the big stars.
The Paraguayan would play alongside Messi 27 times during his MLS career, with the pair averaging a pretty strong return.
| Wins | Draws | Losses | Points per game | Assists for each other | |
| Messi and Gomez | 18 | 5 | 4 | 2.19 | 3 |
While relationships on the field do not always carry over beyond the 90 minutes it is clear to see that the pair had a special bond which will be missed this season.