Lionel Messi has been rumoured to be returning to Barcelona as every passing day brings him closer to home but Major League Soccer (MLS) remains a viable option for the Argentine international in the future. While nothing regarding the seven-time Ballon d’Or winner’s decision on his future indicates a move to the United States, MLS Commissioner Don Garber has stated that the prospect of Messi playing in the United States is “realistic.”
Garber said in a recent interview that Messi’s potential arrival would be “great for MLS” and that the league would be a great place for him to play in the later stages of his career. Garber added that Messi is a player who would “enjoy the lifestyle here” and that MLS would welcome him with open arms.
Messi has spent the majority of his professional career playing for Barcelona in La Liga, winning countless titles and accolades along the way. And despite his short sting with Paris Saint-Germain, there have been strong links of a possible return to Barcelona, with some speculating that he could be considering a move to MLS right after.
Lionel Messi yet to officially make his decision
Messi’s contract with PSG is set to expire at the end of this season, which has only fueled the rumours of various destinations, especially MLS. The Argentine forward has previously expressed his admiration for the league and has been linked with several MLS clubs, including Inter Miami, which is owned by David Beckham.
Despite the rumours, it remains to be seen if Messi will actually make the move to MLS. The superstar is still playing at an incredibly high level and may still have several years of top-tier football left in him. Additionally, multiple reports have shown that the World Cup winner desires a reunion with the Catalan giants and it would likely be the most realistic option for the summer.
If Messi were to eventually make the move to MLS, it would be a major coup for the league and would further cement its status as a top destination for international football talent. The league has already seen several high-profile players make the move to MLS in recent years, including David Beckham, Thierry Henry, and Zlatan Ibrahimovic, and the addition of Messi would only serve to increase its profile and reputation.