Lionel Messi, the global football icon and Inter Miami CF star, has praised the rising level of competition in Major League Soccer (MLS), crediting it to the influx of young, foreign players. Since arriving in South Florida in the summer of 2023, Messi has seen noticeable improvements across the league, making the 2025 season his most competitive yet.
“It’s a very physical league, with many young players that are addressing weaknesses with physical attributes,” Messi said during an interview with Simplemente Fútbol. He highlighted how the league has evolved into a fast-paced environment with intense end-to-end action, especially in the final minutes of matches. “It may not seem like it, but teams run a lot. There are many back-and-forth matches, especially in the final minutes with open spaces,” he explained, underlining the demanding nature of MLS.
Inter Miami and MLS Clubs Boost Rosters with Young Talent
Ahead of the 2025 season, Inter Miami bolstered its already star-studded squad, which includes Luis Suárez, Sergio Busquets, Jordi Alba, and Messi himself, by signing promising young players from South America. This move reflects a broader trend across MLS, as clubs aim to combine experience with youthful energy.
Other MLS teams have also made significant acquisitions to strengthen their rosters. San Diego FC secured Mexican star Hirving Lozano, Charlotte FC added Wilfried Zaha, while Atlanta United reinforced their attack with Emmanuel Latte Lath and the return of Paraguayan playmaker Miguel Almirón. These signings are evidence of a league intent on raising its global profile and delivering higher-quality football to its growing fan base.
League Restrictions Remain a Barrier to Growth
Despite the influx of talent, Messi pointed out that certain league restrictions continue to limit MLS’s potential for growth. Under current rules, each team is permitted only three designated players and must operate within a strict salary cap, making roster building a delicate and strategic process.
“I think if the league allowed more players to be brought in, because there are many restrictions, they would grow much more,” Messi noted. He added that easing these constraints would allow clubs to deepen their squads, improve competitiveness, and better handle challenges like injuries and suspensions. Former Inter Miami coach Gerardo Martino voiced similar frustrations after his side’s elimination by Monterrey in the 2024 Concacaf Champions Cup, stating that Mexican teams still have an advantage due to MLS’s stringent roster policies.
Inter Miami’s Historic Season and Messi’s Contentment
Despite structural challenges, Messi and Inter Miami have adapted impressively, achieving significant milestones. The Herons currently sit fourth in the Eastern Conference standings and recently made club history by advancing to the semifinals of the Concacaf Champions Cup after defeating LAFC 3-2 on aggregate.
Messi expressed his happiness with his time in the United States, appreciating the unique experiences and opportunities that American soccer provides. “The truth is, I like being here. There’s a lot of traveling, though… But it’s a league to enjoy,” he shared. His presence, along with the club’s ambitious signings, has helped position Inter Miami as a powerhouse both domestically and internationally.
Upcoming Challenges for Inter Miami
Looking ahead, Inter Miami faces a crucial stretch in their campaign. They are set to take on the Columbus Crew this Saturday at Huntington Bank Field in Ohio, a critical fixture for maintaining momentum in the MLS standings. Shortly after, the Herons will travel to Canada to face the Vancouver Whitecaps in the first leg of the Concacaf Champions Cup semifinals on April 24.
With Messi leading a revitalized squad and the level of play across MLS continuing to climb, the future looks bright for Inter Miami and the league as a whole. Fans eagerly anticipate how far Messi and his team can push the boundaries in a season already full of promise and excitement.
