Messi to Miami — Does It Impact Union?

“I’m going to Miami.” – The greatest soccer player to have ever lived.

On Wednesday, June 7th, Argentine legend Lionel Messi signed with Inter Miami on a free transfer from a European giant club, Paris Saint Germain. This transfer is not just important for Messi or Miami itself but for the league as a whole. In fact, Union head coach, Jim Curtin said, “It’s the biggest day in probably MLS history.”

Now how does this affect the league? The Union? With the arrival of Messi to the MLS, a lot more media and attention is brought with him. The MLS will now get more followers, viewers, fans in attendance, attention, and most importantly more respect. The MLS has already some of the greatest players of all time land in the league such as Ibrahimovic, Gerrard, Drogba, Lampard, Pirlo, etc. However, none come in touching distance of Messi. The signing of Messi will draw even more great players to this rapidly growing league. Curtin claims, “I think there will be no problems recruiting players here and players want to be in the United States.”

Unfortunately, the Union doesn’t have the available funds and connections like some of these other teams in the league to draw in these huge players. Also, Union’s Sporting Director, Ernst Tanner, is a firm believer in building from the youth academies and buying scouted players in lower-tier football. While the Union have had success in building through the youth academy, developing players such as Brendan Aaronson, Mark Mckenzie, Auston Trusty, Paxten Aaronson, and having young talents Jack McGlynn, Quinn Sullivan, and Brandon Craig on their roster currently, I have concerns that they will begin to fall behind the growing rate of the league. On the other hand, Messi’s transfer brings a major positive to Philadelphia as well, more revenue.

The Union look to continue their winning streak in San Jose on the 10th this weekend.