Lionel Messi Impact Makes MLS a Global Football Magnet

Lionel Messi arrival at Inter Miami has boosted MLS viewership worldwide, attracting fans and top talents like Emmanuel Latte Lath. Fresh off his 2022 World Cup triumph, Messi erased the "retirement league" tag. Under Javier Mascherano, Miami remains favorites for MLS 2025, aiming for multiple titles despite roster changes, with Messi influence undeniable.

With the arrival of Lionel Messi at Inter Miami, Major League Soccer (MLS) has witnessed a dramatic surge in global attention and competitiveness. Messi’s move, fresh off his 2022 FIFA World Cup triumph with Argentina, shattered the “retirement league” narrative, attracting not just fans but also emerging talents like Emmanuel Latte Lath and Kevin Denkey. His presence expanded MLS’s viewership in countries previously uninterested in the league, similar to the attention Ligue 1 received when Messi joined PSG.

The 2025 MLS season has been unpredictable, with significant transfers such as Dejan Joveljic shifting from LA Galaxy to Sporting KC and Evander’s move sparking chaos. New rules allowing inter-league transfers have intensified the competition.

Apple TV analyst Kaylyn Kyle highlighted Inter Miami’s dominance, led by Messi and managed by Javier Mascherano. Despite losing key players like Diego Gómez and Matías Rojas, Mascherano’s signings—Tadeo Allende and Telasco Segovia—kept Miami strong. The team has even secured wins with 10 men, positioning them as early favorites for the MLS Cup and Supporters' Shield.

According to Kyle, Messi’s influence transformed MLS into a destination for top players and fans, with Inter Miami aiming for glory in every competition, including the CONCACAF Champions Cup and Club World Cup.