MLS
Lionel Messi, Luis Suárez, and Inter Miami: The True Business of MLS
Messi and Suárez's arrival at Inter Miami transforms MLS into a global soccer sensation.
The arrival of Lionel Messi at Inter Miami has been nothing short of transformative for Major League Soccer (MLS). His presence has not only elevated the team's performance but also significantly boosted the league's commercial appeal. Alongside Messi, the addition of Luis Suárez has further solidified Inter Miami's status as a powerhouse in North American soccer. This article delves into how Messi and Suárez have turned Inter Miami into a lucrative business venture for MLS.
Messi's Impact on and off the Pitch
Lionel Messi's signing with Inter Miami in 2023 marked a pivotal moment for the club and MLS. Before Messi's arrival, Inter Miami was struggling, sitting at the bottom of the league standings. However, Messi's debut on July 21, 2023, sparked an incredible turnaround. The team went undefeated for 12 games, with Messi contributing 11 goals and 5 assists. Despite missing the playoffs, Miami won the Leagues Cup and reached the final of the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup, showcasing Messi's immediate impact on the field.
Off the pitch, Messi's influence has been equally profound. His arrival generated unprecedented global fanfare, with Miami fans donning Inter Miami Messi shirts and billboards displaying his face around the city. The club's value nearly doubled, and it secured record revenues for 2023. The MLS Season Pass service saw a surge in subscriptions, and sales from the league's official online store rose by 44 percent. Messi's presence has made Inter Miami the most attractive destination in North American soccer, drawing in fans and investors alike.
The Suárez Effect
In December 2023, Inter Miami added another star to their roster: Luis Suárez. The Uruguayan forward, known for his legendary chemistry with Messi during their time at FC Barcelona, joined the team, reuniting with his close friend. Suárez's debut against Real Salt Lake saw him starting in the middle of a front three, with Messi to his right. This reunion has not only bolstered the team's attacking prowess but also reignited the excitement among fans.
Suárez's signing was a strategic move by Inter Miami to maximize the commercial potential of having two global superstars on their roster. The duo's history of success at Barcelona, where they won numerous titles together, has created a buzz that extends beyond the soccer field. Their friendship and on-field connection have made Inter Miami games a must-watch event, further driving ticket sales and merchandise revenue.
Commercial Success and Future Prospects
Inter Miami's commercial success since Messi's arrival has been staggering. The club's Chief Business Officer, Xavier Asensi, projected that the team would generate over $200 million in revenue in 2024. This financial windfall is a testament to the "Messi Effect," which has seen the club's value soar and its global profile rise. The team's preseason tours in Japan, El Salvador, Hong Kong, and Saudi Arabia were designed to capitalize on Messi's star power, drawing large crowds and generating significant revenue.
The addition of Suárez has only amplified this commercial success. His jersey quickly became one of the top sellers in MLS, second only to Messi's. The combined star power of Messi and Suárez has made Inter Miami a dominant force in the league, both on and off the field. The club's ability to attract top talent and generate substantial revenue has set a new standard for MLS teams.
Challenges and Opportunities
Despite the overwhelming success, Inter Miami faces several challenges. The team needs to address its defensive issues, having conceded 54 goals during the 2023 campaign. Additionally, managing the minutes of aging stars like Messi, Suárez, Sergio Busquets, and Jordi Alba will be crucial to maintaining their competitive edge throughout the season.
Looking ahead, Inter Miami is poised to continue its upward trajectory. The team is free from the sanctions imposed for violating roster rules in 2020, allowing it to leverage the spending power of its owners, Jorge and Jose Mas. This financial flexibility could see the addition of more top-tier talent, further strengthening the squad.
The arrival of Lionel Messi and Luis Suárez has transformed Inter Miami into a commercial juggernaut and a competitive force in MLS. Their presence has not only elevated the team's performance but also significantly boosted the league's global appeal. As Inter Miami continues to build on this success, the true business of MLS is becoming increasingly clear: star power drives growth, and Messi and Suárez are leading the charge.