Richard Ruiz Owner, Miami Lakes Barbershop Kendall
“Yes, absolutely,” Richard Ruiz said. “Miami would be the first place, I wouldn’t mind traveling to see him. Orlando [or] Tampa, wherever there is a stadium."
Nicolas Malkind Co-owner, Amazonia Nikkei Fusion Restaurant Miami
“We already went [to see him] two weeks ago against Atlanta [United FC],” Nicolas Malkind said in Spanish. Like Messi, Malkind is originally from Argentina. “Possibly we may [go again], but not all the games."
Ike Greenspon Co-Owner, Carbon Collectibles, Coral Gables
“I saw Messi two weeks ago in the game they played against Atlanta [United FC],” Ike Greenspon said. “They scored two goals in the first 25 minutes [and the] crowd was electric. It was really fun … the stadium was packed, and the crowd was going crazy every time he touched the ball. I would definitely like to see him again. It reminded me of playoff hockey where the whole stadium is really cheering and rocking and everyone is having a good time.”
Fidel Bettancourt Co-Owner, Carbon Collectibles Miami Lakes
“Yeah for sure [I’m planning on seeing Messi],” Fidel Bettancourt said. “It’s the happening thing right now in Miami and its up there on the to do list. It’d be great to see him. I’m a big soccer fan, bigger [Cristiano] Ronaldo fan, but I think Messi is awesome for the community. The fact that Inter Miami [FC] was able to secure an athlete of that magnitude is great for the city.”
Tico Casamayor President, AC Graphics Miami Lakes
“When Messi came into town, I was very excited, I didn’t expect it to be as crazy as it has been,” Tico Casamayor said. “I have Apple TV, but I haven’t paid for a match yet. But I do watch the replays and the reviews on SportsCenter. I want to go, but the reason I haven’t gone is because of the heat. As soon as it gets a little cooler or acceptable, yes, I plan on going to a match to experience the whole craziness.”