The Major League Soccer (MLS) regular season is set to kick off on February 22nd with an exciting match that sees Inter Miami hosting Real Salt Lake at DRV PNK Stadium. This opening game not only signals the start of a new season but also marks the ongoing impact of one of the sport's most illustrious names — Lionel Messi— who made his debut for Inter Miami in the previous season.
Messi's Magnetic Influence
Known worldwide for his exceptional skill and football intelligence, Messi's transition to MLS has been nothing short of transformative for Inter Miami and American soccer as a whole. Last season, his presence led to a significant spike in ticket and jersey sales for the club, showcasing his profound influence off the pitch. Additionally, his arrival has been credited with boosting Apple TV subscriptions, further elevating the league's profile and viewership.
Beyond commerce, Messi's move is perceived as a pivotal moment that could pave the way for other top international talents to consider the MLS as a viable and attractive option in their careers. This notion was only strengthened by Inter Miami's subsequent signing of Luis Suarez, another globally recognized star and Messi's close friend, indicating a potentially transformative era for the club and the league.
Leagues Cup Triumph and Pre-Season Build-Up
Despite placing 14th in the Eastern Conference last season — their lowest since 2020 — Inter Miami clinched the Leagues Cup title, defeating Nashville SC on penalties in a dramatic final. This victory not only provided a morale boost but also showcased the team's potential under high-pressure situations. The pre-season period saw Messi facing his boyhood club, Newell's Old Boys, in a friendly match, adding an emotional layer to Inter Miami's preparation for the upcoming season.
However, the pre-season journey wasn't without its challenges, as Inter Miami secured just one victory in eight friendly matches. Despite this, the team maintains an optimistic outlook for the approaching MLS season. With key players such as Messi, Jordi Alba, and Sergio Busquets on their roster, Inter Miami is setting its sights on competing for the MLS title.
2024 Season Prospects
Looking ahead, Inter Miami faces a tough schedule, with matches against formidable opponents like New York City FC and Atlanta United on the horizon. The 2024 MLS regular season will run until October, setting the stage for the MLS Cup Playoffs, which are slated to start in late October.
Tickets for Inter Miami's opening match are already sold out, underscoring the heightened interest and anticipation among fans. With the club predicted to place third in the Eastern Conference, expectations are high. However, they will be up against stiff competition, including the Columbus Crew, last season's winner, which is forecasted to finish fourth.
Toward a Historic MLS Cup Victory
As the season progresses, the Conference Semifinals and Finals will unfold in November and early December, respectively, leading up to the MLS Cup final scheduled for December 7th. Inter Miami's ambition is clear, reinforced by the words of Luis Suarez: "Inter Miami offered me a nice opportunity to dream of winning the club's first MLS title, to play with big players, who everybody knows, and adapt to my new team and club."
In conclusion, the upcoming 2024 MLS season presents an exhilarating opportunity for Inter Miami to leverage its high-profile signings and achieve unprecedented success. With Messi at the helm, the club not only aims to captivate its fan base but also to leave an indelible mark on American soccer, signaling a new era for the sport in the United States.