In this podcast, experts discuss what Lionel Messi's arrival means for American soccer. They explore the impact of previous stars who tried to crack the USA, and analyze how Messi and Inter Miami will build on his arrival. Ex-MLS players share insights on playing soccer in the States and how Messi will fit in. The podcast also touches on the growth of soccer in the US, the influence of star players, and the aspirations of Inter Miami's owners.
Messi's arrival in Inter Miami is expected to have a significant impact on MLS, raising league-wide attendance and boosting merchandise sales.
MLS has implemented the designated player rule to accommodate star-driven teams like Inter Miami, signaling the league's focus on developing high-profile players.
Deep dives
Impact of Messi's arrival on MLS and Inter Miami
Messi's decision to join Inter Miami is a game changer for Major League Soccer (MLS). The arrival of the world's best soccer player in Miami is an unprecedented move that has sparked excitement and anticipation. It is expected to have a significant impact on MLS, attracting more attention, raising league-wide attendance, and boosting merchandise sales. Inter Miami, which currently sits at the bottom of the Eastern Conference, hopes that Messi's presence will elevate the team's performance and help establish the club as an international brand. Despite the challenges they face, Messi's arrival in Miami is seen as an opportunity to grow soccer in the United States.
The historical precedent of star players in American soccer
The signing of Messi by Inter Miami follows a trend in American soccer of attracting world-renowned players to promote the sport and increase its popularity. This strategy was evident in previous signings like David Beckham for the LA Galaxy and Pelé for the New York Cosmos. These players played a crucial role in advancing soccer in the United States and helped lay the foundation for the growth of the sport. MLS has learned from the past and introduced the designated player rule to accommodate high-profile players like Messi, signaling the league's focus on developing star-driven teams.
Challenges and opportunities for MLS and Inter Miami
While Messi's arrival brings immense excitement, there are challenges that MLS and Inter Miami must navigate. MLS stadiums, designed for relatively small crowds, will face the pressure of accommodating the increased demand to watch Messi play. The league's focus on star players and the lack of promotion and relegation may differ from soccer traditions in other countries, but it aligns with American sports culture that emphasizes individual stars. Inter Miami, currently struggling in the league, will need to leverage Messi's presence to improve their performance and build a successful team. The ultimate goal is for MLS to become a widely consumed product in the US, and the arrival of Messi, along with upcoming events like the World Cup and the Olympics, present a unique opportunity to achieve this vision.
In the second episode of this documentary series, presenter Mike Zimmermann explores what Lionel Messi’s arrival will mean for American Soccer.
Pablo Maurer looks back at the stars who have tried to crack the USA, while Felipe Cardenas looks ahead to how Messi and Inter Miami will attempt to build on this.
You'll also hear from Ex-MLS players Bradley Wright-Phillips and Nedum Onuoha, who talk us through playing Soccer in the States, and how they think the Argentine will fit in.
Produced by Jay Beale.
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