‘It’s going to open the door for many others’: Christian Benteke on impact of Lionel Messi’s ‘exciting’ MLS arrival – and how competitive All-Stars boss Wayne Rooney has told his players to ‘make sure’ they beat Arsenal

Christian Benteke will join the best of MLS vs. Arsenal, although a huge name will be missing when Wayne Rooney’s All-Stars play at Audi Field.

Lionel Messi has only just arrived in the league with Inter Miami, and while he won’t share the pitch with the ex-Crystal Palace striker on Wednesday, his mere presence in the United States has raised the league’s profile.

“Obviously now that he’s here, it opens the door for a lot of other players,” Benteke told Mail Sport exclusively. “I think it’s an exciting moment for MLS and also for myself.”

Benteke came into contact with Rooney in the US capital last summer and is now in his first full season there.

The 32-year-old has scored eight goals this season and will join World Cup winner Thiago Almada and ex-Barcelona midfielder Riqui Puig vs. the Gunners on his home field, Audi Field, pass.

‘It’s really cool. That was clearly why I came here – to play with the best and also against the best,” said Benteke.

The striker took part in a picturesque training session on Washington’s National Mall on Tuesday morning, with Rooney present for light training.

A day before playing against Arsenal, the All-Stars did some stretches before spending the rest of the time playing soccer volleyball.

And while the mood will remain light on the way to what is considered an exhibition, the goal for Rooney’s temporary group is clear.

“His message was to have fun,” Benteke said, “and make sure we win this game.”

The MLS All-Stars face Arsenal on Wednesday at 8:30 PM ET.