Finally speaking to the media following Inter Miami’s 3-1 victory over LAFC, Lionel Messi reminds the MLS that his team is aiming for league supremacy

Since his absence from the game was a violation of the league’s media regulations, Lionel Messi has spoken postgame for the first time in an MLS match.

Following the 3-1 victory over LAFC, Messi spoke with Apple TV’s Antonella Gonzalez, meeting the requirement that all MLS players speak to the media.

The Argentine is seeking to rule America this season, as he has done in Spain, France, and Europe itself, despite being eight points out of the Eastern Conference playoffs with nine games left (though he does have two games in hand).

We have been stating since the beginning of this whole thing that the team is growing more and more each day. We were fortunate to locate a tournament and go to the finals,’ the man stated.

“And now we’re aiming for the eight to try to win the league this is the way,” the coach said. Naturally, success gives us a lot of confidence.

Lionel Messi spoke postgame to Apple TV's Spanish-language reporter Antonella Gonzalez

Lionel Messi spoke postgame to Apple TV’s Spanish-language reporter Antonella Gonzalez

Messi provided an assist as Inter Miami won 3-1 vs. the reigning defending champions, LAFC

Messi provided an assist as Inter Miami won 3-1 vs. the reigning defending champions, LAFC

The Argentine brought many Hollywood stars including Owen Wilson (C) and his son, Robert

The Argentine brought many Hollywood stars including Owen Wilson (C) and his son, Robert

In front of a Hollywood audience, Inter Miami put on a show as they competed against the reigning champs.

In the 14th minute, against the flow of play, Facundo Farias scored the game’s first goal. Shortly after the half, Jordi Alba increased the Herons’ advantage.

Prior to a late comeback for the hosts, Messi then set up Leonardo Campana to all but seal the victory.

Messi continued, “We said before the game that this would be a great test for us to see where we stand and what we’re capable of.”

We competed against the last champions in a difficult environment, and the outcome was crucial for what lies ahead.

After coming off the bench in his MLS debut on August 26 against the New York Red Bulls, the 36-year-old played the full game this time around.

Messi stated, “Physically, I feel good.” Thank God I can continue playing and supporting the squad in whatever way I can, and I hope this dynamic continues.

The Athletic claims that Messi and his agents have a deal with the league that allows the World Cup star to pick and choose whatever media appearances he makes.

The site quotes a source who claims that the contract is “a handshake sort of thing” and that the general parameters are “a work in progress.”