In Matchday 3 of the Leagues Cup group stage, Inter Miami lost 2‑3 to Club León and failed to qualify for the knockout phase. In this fixture, Lionel Messi made a swift comeback and came on as a second‑half substitute. After the game, Casemiro gave an interview and spoke about Messi’s return.
On the elimination
Casemiro: It is tough, especially when you lose. Losing is always hard to take, yet we know we have to improve and the team must keep growing.
This is a competition where we wanted to fight for the title. We really wanted to win. We knew it would be difficult, but we went into it full of desire. Everyone is frustrated right now, yet we understand we have to get through this and shift our focus to the next match.
On Messi’s rapid return
Casemiro: Without doubt, he sets an example. Truth be told, he has undoubtedly been going through an extremely difficult period recently. Even so, he has shown incredible commitment not just for his teammates but for the entire club. I have never witnessed anything like this in my life. So all we can do is thank him for being here today.We know he is an enormously important player for us, yet this level of dedication he has shown for us and for the club deserves applause. We ought to fully support and stand by him.
Naturally, he himself understands the phase of life he is going through, but we must say “thank you very much” — thank you for being here, thank you for helping us, thank you for helping the club.
The commitment he has displayed is unbelievable. We have to keep supporting him, because I care deeply about him and send my best wishes to his family as well. I believe he needs time to get through this difficult moment, and all we can do is sincerely thank him for fighting alongside us.
Were you surprised to see Messi return?
Casemiro: You are certainly happy when you see Leo in the dressing room, yet without a shadow of a doubt, I was truly shocked. His sense of commitment has left a deep impression on me.
Frankly speaking, it makes you reflect: this is why he is so great, why he ranks among the greatest players in history, arguably the greatest of all time.
That is why he keeps proving to everyone that he is the best.
So as we were talking about earlier, right? We have to take our hats off to him and say thank you. Keep supporting him, send encouragement to him and his family. What he has done for us by being here today is truly remarkable, many thanks for being out there fighting with us today.