Inter Miami launches MLS season amidst sky-high expectations

In a highly anticipated kickoff to the new Major League Soccer season, Lionel Messi and Inter Miami brace themselves for a demanding journey, carrying the weight of expectations after a tumultuous year.

Lionel Messi, the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner, made waves last summer as he transferred from Paris Saint-Germain to Inter Miami, becoming the biggest star in MLS history. The initial excitement reached its peak when Messi led Miami to victory in the Leagues Cup, filling stadiums and boosting Apple TV’s MLS Season Pass subscriptions.

However, the fervor was short-lived as Messi grappled with fitness challenges and Miami struggled to secure a playoff spot. The ambitious decision to embark on an overseas pre-season tour backfired, drawing boos in Hong Kong after Messi’s absence from a key friendly.

Now, Messi and his teammates face a grueling season, juggling MLS competition, the CONCACAF Champions Cup, and the defense of their Leagues Cup title against formidable Mexican and MLS opponents. All of this is set against the backdrop of Argentina’s quest for the Copa America on American soil.

Joining Messi in Miami are fellow Barcelona alumni Luis Suarez, Sergio Busquets, and Jordi Alba. The quartet brings unprecedented experience and expectations to a team aiming for its first MLS title.

Shanyder Borgelin, a 22-year-old rising star, believes the team is ready to meet the challenges. “That’s expected when you have the greatest player in the world, four of the greatest players in the world, but I think we’re ready,” he said, reflecting on the team’s strengthened resolve after preseason setbacks.

The season kicks off with Miami facing Real Salt Lake at home on Wednesday, setting the stage for a summer of high-stakes competitions. Defending champions Columbus Crew, led by coach Wilfried Nancy, begin their title defense against Atlanta United, while 2022 MLS Cup winners LAFC host the Seattle Sounders in a marquee clash.

Notable changes across the league include LAFC’s acquisition of World Cup-winning goalkeeper Hugo Lloris and the uncertainty surrounding Carlos Vela’s future with the club. Additionally, new faces grace the coaching benches, with Dean Smith taking charge at Charlotte and Phil Neville leading the Portland Timbers.

As the MLS season commences, it does so with replacement referees, highlighting the breakdown in talks between the refs union and the league’s Professional Referees Organization over a new collective deal. The stage is set for a season filled with Messi’s brilliance, intense competition, and the quest for glory.