Fort Lauderdale, Dec 5 (NationPress) Lionel Messi expressed his desire for Inter Miami to provide Sergio Busquets and Jordi Alba with the fitting send-off they deserve as they prepare to play their last match in the MLS Cup against the Vancouver Whitecaps.

Both iconic players will exit the club before the next season, with midfielder Busquets and defender Alba concluding their careers following Saturday’s decisive title match.

The entire Inter Miami team, alongside Messi, aims to bid farewell to the FC Barcelona and Spain legends with one final trophy before they embark on their new journey beyond soccer.

"It would be really great for me, for them, for everyone, wouldn’t it?" Messi stated in an interview with the official MLS website. "May they conclude their careers with a title and in the best way possible."

The trio joined forces at Miami in 2023, with Messi transferring from Paris Saint-Germain and Busquets and Alba arriving after leaving Barcelona, as reported by Xinhua.

"I think it would be extremely positive and a lovely memory for them to retire with one more joy in the remarkable careers they have had, with all the titles they both earned," said the eight-time Ballon d'Or winner and 2022 World Cup champion.

"To add one more and retire on a high note, saying goodbye to the United States with a title? That would be something truly special."

Messi acknowledged that Miami anticipates a challenging final against a Vancouver team that previously defeated them twice in April, knocking them out of the CONCACAF Champions Cup. Since then, the Canadian team has enhanced its roster with the addition of Thomas Muller, the Bayern Munich star and 2014 World Cup champion, who joined in August.

"We have already faced Vancouver, and we understand the kind of team they are," Messi remarked. "They eliminated us, and they have been a consistent team throughout the year, finishing among the top sides and competing in all competitions until the end, just as we did."

"We know it’s going to be a very, very tough match, and Müller’s addition makes them even stronger. It enhances their gameplay and makes it a very special final that we hope will be in our favor."

He added, "It’s wonderful that he has come to play in MLS, and the attention this brings is significant. I’m glad this final is happening, and we can face each other once more."

While Busquets and Alba are gearing up for retirement, Messi has not indicated any plans to step away from the game. The 38-year-old captain of Argentina showed enthusiasm for participating in the upcoming FIFA World Cup in the United States, Mexico, and Canada, where Albiceleste will strive to defend the title they secured in Qatar in 2022.

He noted the increasing football culture in North America, which bodes well for the World Cup slated for June 11 to July 19.

"In recent years, there has been significant growth and a change in the number of fans who genuinely enjoy the game and are passionate about their teams, where soccer is truly embraced," he shared regarding MLS.

"Mexico has always boasted a fantastic league with many outstanding teams in terms of player quality and financial stability, making it very enjoyable to watch."

"Both the fans and I expect something extraordinary because in the U.S., they are accustomed to hosting grand events, and this is the most significant event in soccer, and I believe they will meet the challenge to allow people to come and enjoy everything."