In a recent interview with ESPN, Major League Soccer (MLS) Commissioner Don Garber discussed the league's progress, the arrival of Lionel Messi, and plans for the future. With the world's most popular player now gracing MLS games, Garber emphasized the significance of having Messi and acknowledged the continued excitement surrounding Inter Miami's signings of Luis Suárez and players Messi has previously played with.

Garber highlighted MLS's long-standing tradition of signing big-name international players and reiterated the league's commitment to not only attracting star players but also nurturing young talents, both from the United States and overseas. He pointed out the increasing number of promising South American players choosing MLS, with 15 of them currently participating in Olympic qualifying. This trend indicates a shift towards signing young and under-22 players, while also rounding out the rosters with experienced players like Hugo Lloris and Emil Forsberg.

Reflecting on the influence of David Beckham's entry into MLS in 2007, Garber acknowledged that without Beckham, there would be no Messi in the league today. Beckham's decision to join MLS had a significant impact and showed that the league could attract globally recognized players. Garber acknowledged that there have been lessons learned from the Beckham experience and subsequent signings of big-name players, with some working well and others not so much.

Addressing concerns about Messi overshadowing other teams and players in MLS, Garber expressed that the league aims to appeal to fans of the sport and convert them into passionate supporters of their respective clubs. He drew comparisons to other sports leagues, such as Major League Baseball and the NFL, where global recognition and fan bases for specific teams have proven beneficial for the entire league.

Regarding future plans, Garber emphasized that each club must make decisions that work for their individual circumstances. He clarified that there is no grand strategy to sign more big-name players but rather a focus on competitiveness, rivalries, and relevance on a regional and global scale. Garber noted that roster rules are reviewed annually to ensure they serve the league's growth objectives while remaining practical.

When questioned about the impact of foreign leagues' spending, particularly the Saudi Pro League, Garber acknowledged that emerging leagues can temporarily influence global player movement. However, he stated that MLS is an active participant in the global transfer market, both in buying and selling players, and has not felt a significant impact from recent investments in other leagues.

Turning to the U.S. Open Cup, Garber discussed the ongoing discussions with the U.S. Soccer Federation (USSF) regarding MLS's participation. He highlighted the importance of managing the league's schedule, which becomes increasingly challenging as more competitions are introduced globally. Garber expressed hope for a resolution that works for the tournament, MLS, and its players, underscoring the evolution of the Open Cup and the need to ensure its resonance with fans, sponsors, and media partners.

Regarding his own future with MLS, Garber remained tight-lipped, stating that he is focused on entering his 25th year as commissioner and will determine his future plans in due course.

As MLS continues to grow and attract high-profile players, Garber's insights shed light on the league's commitment to competitiveness, player development, and strategic decision-making to secure its position in the global soccer landscape.