mls-en : Messi's Impact on US Soccer Sparks Concern for Post-Retirement Era

Icaro
Game Recaps
18/09/2024 22h05

The arrival of Lionel Messi at Inter Miami has brought unprecedented success to the team and the MLS. Inter Miami's popularity and revenue have soared since Messi joined the club, propelling the league's overall value by $3.2 billion. His presence has not only transformed the soccer scene in Miami but has also elevated the profile of the sport in the United States.

With Messi set to retire in 2025, questions arise regarding the future of US soccer post his departure. While Miami may explore signing other aging stars, finding a replacement for an icon like Messi remains a daunting task. Social media comments suggest names like Haaland and Neymar as potential successors, emphasizing the challenge of filling Messi's shoes.

Some fans draw parallels between Messi's impact and Beckham's tenure at LA Galaxy, highlighting the league's growth and stability in recent years. The MLS's gradual growth strategy and strong ownership base provide a sense of optimism amidst concerns about a potential decline after Messi exits.

The league's resilience without Messi in the long term is debated, with contrasting viewpoints on the impact of his departure on attendances and team valuations. While acknowledging the superstar's influence, some remain hopeful for sustained growth post-Messi, citing the league's survival without him as evidence of its underlying strength.

As the US soccer landscape prepares for a post-Messi era, reflections on global soccer history without iconic figures like Messi and Ronaldo underscore the inevitable transitions that leagues undergo. Though challenges lie ahead for Inter Miami and the MLS, the league's evolution and continued expansion offer hope for a prosperous future, even beyond the Messi era.

The views expressed in this article do not reflect the opinion of ICARO, or any of its affiliates.

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