Lionel Messi gives an honest look at MLS, USMNT growth vs. Liga MX and Mexico

MexicoThe country’s soccer culture and international pedigree have historically surpassed that of the United States in North America’s regional rivalries, but the gap appears smaller than ever. Now that I’m witnessing that evolution firsthand at Inter Miami CF, Lionel Messi gave his candid assessment of the growth of Major League Soccer and the USMNT compared to the Mexican National Team and Liga MX.

With Inter Miami competing internationally, Messi has not only faced problems MLSestablished American internationals, as well as highlights from Liga MX. While Mexican dominance remains clear, he believes the margin has narrowed. Speaking YouTube channel I look from behind with Nahuel Guzmán and Gonzalo Iglesias, The Tigres UANL goalkeeper noticed the closing gap, prompting Messi to intervene:

“Well, I think some of that happened at the national team level too, right? Because I think the United States and Mexico are very equal right now. The US National Team has also done a great job in the last few World Cups, and I think the MLS clubs have grown tremendously. When Mexican teams come to play here, it’s difficult for them,” said Messi.

The Argentine also pointed out an important contrast between the playing environments in Mexico and the US, highlighting the factors underlying the continued lead of Mexican clubs, especially in the CONCACAF Champions Cup. “When MLS teams go to Mexico, it also benefits Mexican teams playing at home. In some places you have heights, stadiums filled with 60,000 or 70,000 people, and whether you like it or not, that plays a role. Home advantage is high – that’s why Mexican teams have usually won the Champions Cup”, he added.

To contextualize his point, since the competition’s launch in 1962: Mexican clubs have won 40 titles and finished second 20 times. American sides have now claimed the trophy only three timeswith five second places. Since 2022, every final has pitted one MLS club against one League MX side, but only once did the MLS representative prevail, Seattle Sounders FC.

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Last season, both competitions attracted big names: MLS attracted stars like Son Heung-min and Thomas Müller, while Liga MX welcomed Sergio Ramos, James Rodríguez and Keylor Navas. Still, Liga MX newcomers have largely struggled to match the impact of those who joined MLS.

Still, Messi believes that the rise of the MLS could ultimately benefit Mexican football: “I think the growth of MLS is worth highlighting, and I think it’s good for Mexico too, right? Because it makes them alert. I don’t think you should see it negatively, but rather positively. Competing against the MLS allows them to continue to improve, continue to compete and try to outdo them again and stay on top. In a sense it should help them and not hinder them.“

Historically, Mexico has asserted regional dominance through the CONCACAF Gold Cup, with a record 13 titles. But during the past thirteen editions (since 2002) Mexico has won seven while the USMNT captured the other sixnow in a situation where both national teams share that dominance.

“I think the same thing happens with the national teams, right? The rivalry has always been the United States versus Mexico. The last one was won by Mexico, but before that the United States had won – they’re there. I don’t know, I think overall everything has become much more competitive and balanced.Messi concluded.