Lionel Messi is fired up to aid the growth of MLS
MLS isn’t on the same level as Europe’s best leagues, but worldwide superstar Lionel Messi feels it’s not far behind.
In his first media interview since joining Inter Miami CF as a free agent in July, Argentina’s World Cup winner believes MLS is prepared to achieve the level of competition on the other side of the Atlantic.
Since leaving Paris Saint-Germain at the end of last season, the former Barcelona star has been pulling up MLS and Liga MX opponents en route to Saturday’s Leagues Cup final, scoring nine goals in six games, all wins. The expansion and quality of the sport in the United States has not escaped his notice.
Messi‘s MLS debut will not come until Aug. 26, when Inter Miami starts league play against the New York Red Bulls. Miami has already qualified for next year’s Concacaf Champions Cup by winning the Leagues Cup, but a win against Nashville SC on Saturday would give it a bye in the first round and the club’s first championship.
While Messi‘s on-field contentment is obvious, his family’s decision to migrate to South Florida is also influenced by his off-field satisfaction.
