Inter Miami youngster Ryan Carmichael has given his verdict on how incredible Lionel Messi is in training for the Herons.

The 22-year-old Northern Irish winger was selected by the Florida franchise earlier in the season during the 2024 MLS SuperDraft, with Carmichael since training with Inter Miami.

From Hofstra University, the forward has been granted the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to train with some of the biggest names in soccer in Sergio Busquets, Luis Suarez and, of course, Messi.

Inter Miami’s Ryan Carmichael blown away by Lionel Messi

Inter Miami CF Training Session Carmichael Messi

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And speaking to the News Letter, Carmichael has now revealed what it’s actually like to train with Messi, an opportunity few players will ever be given in their career.

Whilst the winger is yet to feature for Inter Miami, participating alongside the Argentine in training will help Carmichael greatly in his development, and the Northern Irish youngster has been impressed by Messi.

The attacker said when asked about Messi: “I have been up a few times with the first-team a few times and have played in a training match which was a surreal experience.

“Training with Lionel was certainly a memorable occasion, he doesn’t speak much English but I shook his hand and introduced myself. He is on a completely different level on the pitch as he always seems to be five or six steps ahead.”

Lionel Messi can help younger teammates reach new levels

SOCCER: MAR 13 CONCACAF Champions Cup - Inter Miami vs Nashville
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Messi’s influence at Inter Miami is unquestionable, with the 36-year-old bringing the best out of his new teammates and raising the quality of the entire squad by several factors.

And for the likes of Carmichael, the influence of Messi can inspire the younger players at Inter Miami to surpass their potential to become something truly unexpected and brilliant.

We have seen the likes of Robert Taylor and Benjamin Cremaschi explode since Messi’s arrival, and more players could follow suit if given time to train with the reigning Ballon d’Or winner.