Lionel Messi, the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner, continues to redefine the standards of excellence in Major League Soccer (MLS) with his performances for Inter Miami. Since his arrival in the United States in the summer of 2023, Messi has not only captivated fans but also significantly raised the profile of the league.
Immediate Impact and Unprecedented Popularity
Messi’s transfer to Inter Miami, orchestrated by co-owner David Beckham, quickly paid dividends as he led the team to a historic Leagues Cup victory just weeks after joining. His presence on the field has been nothing short of transformative, drawing record crowds and generating a buzz that MLS has seldom experienced.
A recent match against Sporting Kansas City at Arrowhead Stadium, home to the NFL’s Chiefs, underscored this impact vividly. The game attracted over 70,000 spectators, marking it as the fourth largest crowd in MLS history for a single game. Such figures are testament to Messi’s unparalleled draw as a global sports icon. Even Kansas City’s own superstar, quarterback Patrick Mahomes, made it a point to arrive 90 minutes early, a nod to the exceptional nature of the event.
Taylor Twellman Praises Messi’s Consistency and Influence
Former USMNT star and soccer analyst Taylor Twellman highlighted Messi’s consistent ability to rise to the occasion. 72,000 people showed up in Kansas City to watch an MLS league game – that is the fourth largest in league history for a single MLS game. Just let that sink in,” Twellman reflected. He praised the fans for their energetic support, emphasizing that while the crowd was pro-Kansas City, the allure of Messi’s play could not be overlooked.
Twellman further noted the stark contrast in attendance from a similar event in 2008, which featured David Beckham but drew only 26,000 fans. Messi’s ability to almost triple that figure and sell out the stadium in less than a week speaks volumes about his influence and appeal.
The Messi Effect: On and Off the Field
Beyond his goals and assists, Messi’s impact extends off the field. His presence in MLS serves as a magnet for fans, media attention, and aspiring athletes. It’s a dynamic that elevates every match he plays into a must-see event, enhancing the league’s domestic and international reputation.
The question posed by Twellman, “will we ever see the likes of this again?” underscores a significant sentiment in the sports community. Messi’s tenure in MLS is not just about the records he might set but about the lasting legacy of heightened visibility and interest in soccer across North America.
Looking Ahead
With Messi contracted to remain in Florida through the end of the 2025 MLS season, with an option for an additional year, his continued influence seems assured. His potential participation in the 2026 World Cup, to be held partly on American soil, could further cement his influence and legacy in U.S. soccer history.
As Messi continues to perform, the MLS finds itself at the forefront of a transformative era, where the line between American soccer and global football culture becomes increasingly blurred, thanks to the enduring impact of one of the greatest players of all time.
