Lionel Messi sent ripples through American soccer when he decided to join Inter Miami this summer, and his impact has been so significant that MLS may be set to change a long-standing rule.
MLS fixtures would typically go ahead during the worldwide international breaks which would put short pauses on club football, but Messi’s arrival as an Argentina superstar may force a change to this structure.
Messi may well inspire more players who frequently play for their national teams to move to MLS, and as a result, MARCA have reported that pausing MLS fixtures during international breaks is being considered, with Messi’s presence helping push this change.
Messi is set to feature for Argentina in the upcoming international break, meaning that he will likely miss the game against Sporting Kansas City, and it will be difficult for him and others to strike a balance between club and international commitments.
Jordi Alba has just retired from the Spain National Team, with the difficulty in balancing his teams after leaving Barcelona playing a part in his decision.
Could this be beneficial?
Whilst international breaks may become a frustration for clubs and fans, international stars like Messi will benefit from fixture lists accommodating national duties.
This rule may also make a move to MLS more appealing for stars who wish to continue their international careers whilst playing in the league, and in the long run it could help increase the league’s attraction.
Messi’s winning run with Miami finally came to an end in a 0-0 draw against Nashville, and it was the first game since his arrival in which he did not score or assist.
His impact on the league as a whole has been remarkable, and it speaks volumes that a major change could now be implemented because of him.