Lionel Messi's MLS influence attracts global stars like Son Heung-Min, boosting league popularity and competitive talent significantly.
Son Heung-Min has officially joined Los AngelesFC in a record-breaking $26 million deal, marking the highest transfer fee in Major League Soccer (<a href=”https://www.buzzineintl.com/category/soccer/mls/”>MLS) history. The South Koreanforward’s move in August 2025 was largely inspired by the profound impact Lionel Messi’s arrival has had on the league, convincing Son to bring his talents to the United States.
The Pull of Lionel Messi on Son Heung-Min’s Decision
Despite a successful career spanning over a decade with Tottenham Hotspur and winning prestigious European trophies, Son described signing with an MLS club as a “dream come true.” His motivation is not only financial but deeply connected to the opportunity to compete alongside Lionel Messi, widely regarded as one of football’s greatest icons. Son acknowledged that Messi’s presence in MLS has elevated the league‘s stature and attracted significant attention from international players and fans alike.
Son spoke to ESPN UK about the undeniable “Messi effect,” explaining,
“It’s huge. I mean, we are very lucky to watch Lionel Messi playing football in the same generation. Watching him play, scoring so many goals, and joining the MLS, I think it will affect so many players, and it also affects me that what he has done for his club and for his country. It just also changed my mind.”
His admittance highlights how Messi’s move created a ripple effect, encouraging other elite athletes to consider MLS as a serious destination.
Even though Messi and Son now belong to rival teams—Inter Miami and LAFC respectively—the chance to share the field with the Argentine star inspires Son. He expressed gratitude for this opportunity, stating,
Image of: Lionel Messi
“I’m very lucky that I can share the same pitch with him,”
reflecting both respect and admiration for Messi’s ongoing influence.
Messi’s Performance has Redefined MLS Standards
Since joining Inter Miami, Lionel Messi has consistently delivered exceptional performances, boasting 18 goals and 7 assists in just 18 games this season alone. Over two years, he has tallied an impressive 58 goals and 28 assists in 70 matches across various competitions. Such dominance underlines his crucial role in elevating Inter Miami, leading the club to its first major honors, including the Leagues Cup and the 2024 MLS Shield.
At 38 years old, Messi’s sustained excellence proves that age has not diminished his scoring ability or leadership. His achievements set a benchmark for competitors like Son Heung-Min, who now aims to replicate similar success in Los Angeles. The South Koreanforward has already hinted at his ambitions to drive LAFC forward despite their current difficulties.
LAFC Was Not Son’s Initial First Choice
Although Lionel Messi’s influence played a key role in Son’s MLS move, the player revealed that LAFC was not his preferred choice at the beginning. He openly admitted during his media unveiling,
“If I’m honest, it was not my first choice,”
indicating that the decision involved considerable contemplation and club negotiations.
Nonetheless, Son quickly dispelled doubts about his commitment, assuring fans and critics alike that he was fully dedicated to his new team. He said,
“I’m more than happy [to join]; so, so excited to see you all. I’m here to win, [to] perform,”
reflecting his determination to make an immediate impact under coach Steve Cherundolo. Currently, LAFC struggles in the Western Conference, sitting sixth with just 36 points, but Son’s arrival brings optimism for a turnaround.
Son’s Ambition to Elevate LAFC Amid Challenges
LAFC’s recent performances include a disappointing early exit from the Leagues Cup group stage, a setback witnessed by Son firsthand. Despite the club’s struggles, he remains confident about his ability to contribute positively. Promising excitement on the pitch, he told the audience,
“I will definitely show you some exciting football,”
adding a lighthearted moment by jokingly asking whether fans preferred calling the sport football or soccer. The crowd’s unanimous “Football, it is,” response seemed to symbolize their increasing acceptance of Son as a key figure in their squad.
The Broader Impact of Lionel Messi on MLS Growth
Since Messi’s arrival in 2023, MLS has experienced unprecedented growth in popularity and competitiveness. The league, once overlooked in comparison to Europe’s top divisions, is now attracting global superstars and greater fan engagement. This transformation has encouraged players like Son Heung-Min, who previously focused on Europe’s elite leagues, to view MLS as a compelling arena for their careers. Messi’s ongoing influence is also driving significant investment in U.S. soccer infrastructure and media attention.
For fans and the league alike, the prospect of Messi competing alongside or against stars such as Son Heung-Min enriches the quality and visibility of MLS. The arrival of top players heralds a new era where the league can vie on a larger stage and continue its upward trajectory.
Future Expectations for Son Heung-Min and LAFC
Looking ahead, Son’s contract with LAFC not only sets a new transfer record but signals the club’s ambition to compete at the highest level in MLS. His experience, professionalism, and goal-scoring prowess position him as a catalyst for LAFC’s resurgence. Meanwhile, the rivalry with Messi’s Inter Miami adds an intriguing subplot that could captivate fans and elevate the league’s profile even further.
Son’s arrival may inspire more international stars to consider MLS as a viable and attractive destination, especially with Lionel Messi setting an influential precedent. As MLS continues to mature, these developments suggest a sustained period of growth and heightened global relevance for American soccer.
