Former Everton striker Landon Donovan has criticised Lionel Messi for leaving the pitch immediately after Inter Miami’s dramatic MLS Cup playoff exit, insisting the Argentine should have shown more respect to both Atlanta United and the club’s supporters.
Softfootball understands that Inter Miami’s season came to a disappointing end after suffering a 3-2 defeat to Atlanta United in last weekend’s MLS Cup Eastern Conference Playoffs.
Messi, visibly frustrated by the result, headed straight down the tunnel at full-time without acknowledging the fans who had backed the team throughout the campaign.
Speaking on the Unfiltered Soccer podcast, Donovan admitted he was disappointed by the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner’s reaction.
“I didn’t like that,” Donovan said.
The former United States international explained that, regardless of the disappointment, players should always take a moment to congratulate their opponents after such a hard-fought contest.
According to Donovan, showing sportsmanship is an important part of the game, especially for someone regarded as one of football’s greatest players.
He also felt Messi owed Inter Miami supporters a gesture of appreciation after the club’s impressive season.
Donovan acknowledged that the World Cup winner may have congratulated Atlanta’s players in the dressing room, but believes the fans deserved recognition before he left the field.
“Maybe in the locker room he congratulated them, but your fans are still out there,” Donovan added.
“They’ve supported you all season. At least go over, thank them and appreciate everything they’ve given you.”
Inter Miami entered the playoffs as one of the favourites after an outstanding regular season, but Atlanta United produced a memorable upset to end their title ambitions.
Donovan believes moments like these reveal true leadership, insisting that even in defeat, great players should set the right example through humility, respect and gratitude.
