When Lionel Messi signed with Inter Miami CF in July 2023, the soccer world shook. MLS had just landed the greatest player of all time, and the effects were immediate — ticket prices for Inter Miami games surged up to 1,700%, Apple TV+ subscriptions spiked globally, and stadiums sold out nationwide.
But Messi didn’t just bring star power — he brought silverware. In just seven games during the Leagues Cup, Messi scored 10 goals, leading Inter Miami to their first-ever trophy. His presence also helped rejuvenate teammates like Robert Taylor and inspired the arrivals of former Barcelona teammates Sergio Busquets and Jordi Alba.
Off the pitch, Messi’s influence brought unprecedented media attention to MLS, with celebrities flocking to games and international broadcasters airing matches in prime time. Even rival players have admitted that sharing the pitch with Messi is a dream come true. In just months, Messi didn’t just change Inter Miami — he redefined MLS.
