Commitment in His DNA" – Luis Suarez Praises Lionel Messi's Tireless Work in Club World Cup Opener

Lionel Messi may not have scored, but his impact in Inter Miami’s FIFA Club World Cup debut against Al Ahly was undeniable. The Herons kicked off their campaign with a hard-fought 0-0 draw against the Egyptian giants, and while goalkeepers — especially Inter Miami’s Oscar Ustari — stole the spotlight with crucial saves, Messi’s work rate drew high praise from long-time teammate Luis Suarez.

Following the match, Suarez emphasized that he was not at all surprised by Messi’s performance. Speaking to GOAL, the Uruguayan striker stated:

"We know how Leo deals with this type of tournament, thanks to his experience. It's an important challenge for him, and we have to support him. We also know the difficulties and complexity of the tournament. We will try to continue to benefit from these matches to continue the team's growth."

Suarez further highlighted the commitment Messi shows, especially in pressing opponents — something that isn’t often expected from a 37-year-old legend:

"What Messi did didn’t surprise me at all. I already know him, and for me, that’s the commitment that’s in his DNA — the desire to win every competition he enters. Despite his age, he’s usually the first one to press at Inter Miami."

🔥 Messi Leading by Example

Suarez, who has played alongside Messi at Barcelona and now Inter Miami, acknowledged how Messi sets the tone for the rest of the team:

"I think that should be an added advantage for the others; that we press and try to run as much as we can so that we can help the team. He has to convey that kind of detail to everyone so that we can achieve what we want, which is to move forward."

⚽ What’s Next for Messi and Inter Miami?

Inter Miami face a tough road ahead in the Club World Cup group stage, with upcoming fixtures against:

• FC Porto (Portugal)

• Palmeiras (Brazil)

Advancing won’t be easy, but with Messi leading the charge and experienced stars like Suarez alongside him, the Herons still have everything to play for.

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🔁 Throwback: Cesc Fabregas Once Declared Lionel Messi "The Most Complete Player Ever"

As the Messi vs Ronaldo debate continues to echo across generations, former teammate Cesc Fabregas had once offered a clear stance in an interview dating back seven years.

"For me, Leo will always be the best player ever, with or without the World Cup," Fabregas told GOAL.

While the Como manager did praise Cristiano Ronaldo’s competitive spirit and work ethic, he argued that Messi was on an entirely different level:

"Cristiano is fantastic… But talent-wise and when we talk about the complete player, Leo became the best goalscorer ever, best passer ever. He can score with both feet, his head, dribble four players, and has vision to make assists. He is the most complete ever, no doubt."

Fabregas added that while the rivalry fueled both players to be better, those who played with or watched Messi closely understood that he was a generational phenomenon.

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🐐 Lionel Messi – The Legacy Grows

With a record 8 Ballon d’Or titles, countless club trophies, a Copa America, and a World Cup to his name, Lionel Messi is already the most decorated footballer of all time.

And now, at 37, with Inter Miami on the global stage, he continues to inspire with his passion, drive, and humility — proving once again why he’s regarded by many as the greatest footballer in history