As the world waits to see Lionel Messi back on the field, the Major League Soccer gears up to start the eight-time Ballon D’or winner’s first full season in the United States. Not only did Messi light up the stadiums with his magical start to his Inter Miami career, but he also boosted MLS’ subscription and viewership for sponsors Apple.
MLS Commissioner Don Garber credited Messi for taking soccer in the USA to a new level, and also nominated him for the MLS Newcomer of the Year award. As fans are roaring to watch Messi in his first full season, MLS have finally dropped the schedule for the season, which will run from February to October.
When will Lionel Messi kickoff his 2024 MLS season?
Not only the fans, but Lionel Messi himself has been gearing up for the upcoming season and looks to be working hard with his preparations to make an impact instantly. Messi will play a pre-season friendly first, against his boyhood club Newell’s Old Boys on 15th February, right before his official season starts in the following week.
MLS released the full schedule for the campaign on Wednesday, as Messi’s new season starts on February 21st, when Inter Miami take on Real Salt Lake at home. This will be the 29th season of the MLS, and the earliest starting one in its history.
The opening week, which is tagged as “MLS is Back”, will have 14 matches played over the weekend of 24th and 25th February, with LA Galaxy vs. Inter Miami being one of the highlights of that particular matchday.
Messi plays his first derby against Orlando City SC on 15th May, during the “MLS Rivalry Week” and ends his league campaign against New England Revolution on 19th October. The MLS Cup follows after the league, which is scheduled to end on 7th December.
Lionel Messi’s Inter Miami career so far
Lionel Messi’s introduction has changed the state of Inter Miami completely, both on and off the field. Not only did Messi add silverware into the club’s trophy room for the first time ever, but he has also boosted the club’s revenue miles above the ground as the 2024 season passes for Inter Miami’s matches have already sold out.
Messi being the catalyst for Miami everywhere, has helped them win the Leagues Cup right after joining the team in July. Messi has 14 appearances for Inter Miami, where he has scored 11 times and assisted five goals. Ten of the total 11 have come during their Leagues Cup glory.
Can Inter Miami win the league if Lionel Messi plays the whole campaign? Let us know your MLS predictions in the comment section.
