Inter Miami head coach Javier Mascherano has hailed Lionel Messi’s influence in changing the way the world views MLS. In just two years, Messi’s arrival has not only boosted stadium attendance and global visibility—but also redefined football culture in the U.S., according to Livescore soccer.
From Icon to Influencer: Messi’s Two-Year Transformation of MLS
A game-changing arrival in 2023
When Lionel Messi signed with Inter Miami in the summer of 2023, the move was seen by many as a headline-grabbing transfer. But two years on, the narrative has shifted entirely—Messi hasn’t just joined MLS, he’s reshaped its global image.
After Inter Miami’s 0-0 draw against Chicago Fire, head coach Javier Mascherano said:
“He’s changing how the world sees MLS—no doubt. Messi brings maximum attention to a league that never had it before.”
That statement came on a night when 62,358 fans packed Soldier Field, setting an all-time attendance record for Chicago Fire.
Unmatched Star Power: Breaking Records Across the League
It’s not just Chicago
This wasn’t the first time Messi’s presence broke attendance records. In 2024, both New England Revolution and Sporting Kansas City hit historic crowd numbers during matches against Inter Miami.
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Gillette Stadium hosted 65,000+ fans
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Arrowhead Stadium drew over 70,000 spectators
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Upcoming: Columbus Crew are moving their home game to Huntington Bank Field in Cleveland, Ohio
These numbers, tracked in real-time on Livescore, show that Messi isn’t just a footballer—he’s an event.
First appearance at Soldier Field
Despite Inter Miami previously playing in Chicago, this was Messi’s first time competing at Soldier Field. The energy was electric, as fans flocked just to see one man. As Mascherano stated:
“People come to see Messi. That’s the truth.”
A Mixed Night on the Pitch
Inter Miami struggles offensively
Despite the packed stadium and the return of their talisman, Inter Miami couldn’t break the deadlock. They managed only 10 shots (3 on target) compared to Chicago’s 16 (7 on target).
The 0-0 result means Miami drops to third place in the Eastern Conference, though they’re still just one point behind leaders Charlotte FC with a game in hand.
Mascherano cites fatigue
Mascherano defended his team’s lackluster performance, pointing to a demanding schedule that included:
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Multiple MLS games every 3–4 days
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A run to the CONCACAF Champions Cup semifinals
“The physical toll is massive,” he admitted. “We’ve played continuously for nearly two months. Some days are better, some are worse—but the fighting spirit remains.”
Messi’s Legacy: Bigger Than Just Goals
A once-in-a-generation effect
Mascherano emphasized that MLS now bears the responsibility to build on what Messi has started.
“Messi is unique. Wherever he plays, he transforms the game. MLS has improved, but now it must continue to grow—on and off the pitch.”
He compared Messi’s impact in the U.S. to what he did in Spain and France: not just scoring, but changing the way fans and players perceive the sport.
According to Livescore soccer, social media engagement and global match coverage of MLS have increased more than 200% since Messi’s arrival.
Beyond the stadium: a cultural shift
From kids wearing pink Inter Miami kits in Tokyo to analysts in Europe covering MLS matches in primetime, Messi has elevated the league’s stature like no one before him.
His brand power, global fanbase, and unmatched legacy have created what Mascherano calls a “turning point for football in the U.S.”
What’s Next for Inter Miami?
Upcoming MLS & Champions Cup fixtures
Inter Miami’s calendar remains intense:
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🆚 Columbus Crew – Saturday night (MLS)
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🆚 Vancouver Whitecaps – April 24 (Champions Cup Semifinal, First Leg)
These matches will test not only their fitness but their ability to maintain focus under the immense pressure that comes with being MLS’s most-watched club.
As always, Livescore will provide minute-by-minute updates, player ratings, and live stats from both matches.
❓ FAQ – Messi MLS Impact Explained
Why is Messi’s influence in MLS so significant?
Because he brings global attention, breaks attendance records, and shifts how international fans perceive American soccer.
How many teams set records thanks to Messi?
At least three MLS clubs (Chicago Fire, SKC, New England Revolution) set all-time attendance records during games against Messi’s Inter Miami.
Has Messi changed match locations in MLS?
Yes. Clubs have moved games to larger stadiums to meet demand, like Columbus Crew relocating to Cleveland’s Huntington Bank Field.
What’s Mascherano’s take on Messi’s role?
He believes Messi is “changing how the world sees MLS” and says it’s now the league’s duty to sustain that growth.
Is Messi’s impact reflected in data?
Absolutely. Livescore data shows a major increase in global viewership, attendance, and digital interaction since his arrival.
🏁 Conclusion: Messi Changed the Game—Now MLS Must Keep Up
The Messi MLS impact is no longer up for debate. He’s filled stadiums, boosted media attention, and injected new life into the American football ecosystem.
But as Mascherano stressed, this is just the beginning. MLS must seize the moment—develop infrastructure, attract more global stars, and improve its competitive quality. Messi has opened the world’s eyes; now the league must prove it belongs on that global stage.
Livescore will continue covering every step of this journey—from Messi’s goals to Inter Miami’s rise and MLS’s evolution. Stay tuned for more as the legend continues to grow—on American soil.