Mauricio Pochettino, head coach of the United States men’s national soccer team (USMNT), has emphasized that Lionel Messi encounters a challenging level of competition while playing in Major League Soccer (MLS). Speaking in early 2024, Pochettino addressed skepticism surrounding the competitiveness of the MLS and noted the league’s steady progress despite not being among the most popular American sports.
Pochettino pointed out that soccer ranks below sports like basketball, American football, hockey, and baseball in the United States, but the quality on the field has grown significantly. He also praised Messi’s involvement in the league as evidence of rising standards.
“How we are seen as the player or the soccer here is that it’s improving a lot. We have the best player in the world playing here, Messi. And Messi when playing football, it’s difficult for him because I think it’s very competitive.”
—Mauricio Pochettino, USMNT Head Coach
He continued by explaining how people often underestimate MLS, but observing the dedication of players, coaches, and the tactical preparations reveals the league’s seriousness.
“I think sometimes people underestimate the MLS, but I think the players – and now that we are involved in the last year – watching a lot of football and seeing all the coaches here, and the preparation, the capacity and the quality.
—Mauricio Pochettino, USMNT Head Coach
“We need to be honest and say that when you think in USA, you think about athletes in Olympic Games, basketball, NFL, hockey, baseball and then soccer. It’s difficult to fight with this idea. What we need to do is to provide all the tools to our players, to help them to perform better.”
—Mauricio Pochettino, USMNT Head Coach
Messi’s Influence on Inter Miami and MLS Performance
Since joining Inter Miami in the summer of 2023, Lionel Messi has significantly shaped both the team’s success and the league’s growing reputation. The eight-time Ballon d’Or winner left Paris Saint-Germain on a free transfer and quickly became a pivotal figure for the Florida-based club.
Messi helped Inter Miami secure their first major trophy, the 2023 Leagues Cup, within months of his arrival. The club also finished the previous season at the top of the Eastern Conference, amassing a record 74 points and winning the Supporters’ Shield.
Although Inter Miami faced early elimination in the MLS Cup playoffs with a first-round loss against Atlanta United, Messi’s performances earned him the MLS Most Valuable Player award, highlighting his impact on the league.
Alongside notable teammates like Jordi Alba, Sergio Busquets, and Luis Suarez, Messi propelled Inter Miami to a competitive position in his first full season. Despite a sluggish start in 2025 under new head coach Javier Mascherano, the team aims to regain momentum with Messi driving their efforts.
In his 59 appearances for Inter Miami, Messi has scored 49 goals and provided 24 assists, becoming the club’s all-time leading scorer and reinforcing his vital role on and off the pitch.
Implications for U.S. Soccer and Future Prospects
Pochettino’s appointment as USMNT head coach in 2024 comes as the team prepares for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, co-hosted by the United States. His remarks underscore the importance of elevating MLS standards as soccer seeks to gain ground among America’s top sports.
With Lionel Messi participating in the MLS and leading Inter Miami, the league’s competitiveness is gaining broader recognition, challenging critics who previously undervalued the quality of play. This growing competitiveness could help develop local talent and inspire greater investment in soccer infrastructure and training.
Looking ahead, the rising standards in the MLS may contribute to stronger performances from American players on the international stage, particularly during the World Cup. Pochettino’s leadership and Messi’s presence form a crucial part of this evolving landscape, signaling a promising future for soccer in the United States.