In 2023, Lionel Messi made the move to the United States after his contract with Paris Saint-Germain expired. The legendary Argentine footballer, known for his long tenure at Barcelona, became a free agent and was persuaded to join Inter Miami by David Beckham and the team’s ownership group. His arrival marked the beginning of a new era for both Messi and Major League Soccer (MLS), with his influence felt both on and off the pitch.
Messi’s impact on MLS has been profound, bringing a surge of attention to the league. Each game Messi plays generates a rush for tickets, with many celebrities eager to witness his play. While still fiercely competitive in pursuit of trophies, Messi’s presence has brought significant media attention to the league, making it a focal point for fans across the United States and beyond.
Inter Miami’s co-president, Xavier Asensi, compared Messi’s effect on MLS to the transformation caused by NBA legend Michael Jordan in basketball. He explained that Messi’s arrival created a turning point for the league, drawing fans from different teams to games simply to watch him play. Asensi emphasized that Messi’s influence on MLS is monumental, similar to Jordan’s impact on the NBA during the 1990s.
Asensi also discussed the strategy that led to Messi’s signing. He realized that competing directly with wealthier, more established clubs would be difficult, so the focus was on offering something distinct: bringing Messi to the United States. Asensi worked with various partners, including the league, Adidas, Fanatics, and Apple, to demonstrate how Messi could transform the sport in the country. This collaboration ultimately helped convince Messi to join.
Since his arrival, Inter Miami has surpassed expectations. The team won the Leagues Cup in a historic victory just weeks after Messi joined, and they are now in contention for the MLS Cup in 2024. In addition to their Leagues Cup triumph, the team also claimed the Supporters’ Shield, with Messi’s influence proving critical in helping the club achieve success well beyond initial projections.
