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The dilemma surrounding Lionel Messi’s time at Inter Miami is making waves, but not in the way fans had hoped. On the latest episode of “The Cooligans,” hosts Christian Polanco and Alexis Guerreros delved into why the legendary player is facing challenges in Major League Soccer, pointing fingers at the league’s regulations.
Polanco doesn’t hold back: “Lionel Messi is not making the most of his time with Inter Miami, and MLS is to blame.” He highlights the recent 3-3 draw between San Jose and Inter Miami as a reflection of larger issues. Despite having Messi, along with other superstars like Luis Suárez, Jordi Alba, and Sergio Busquets, Miami’s defense is lacking, jeopardizing what could have been a dominant MLS team.
“Whatever tactics Javier Mascherano has implemented for the team… defense seems to be a low priority,” Polanco remarked.
But why is that the case? Guerreros explained, “They couldn’t retain the players from last year due to the stringent cap rules, making it challenging.” He emphasizes the irony of having such top-tier talent but struggling to secure wins consistently: “How is it that a team with Lionel Messi, Luis Suárez, Jordi Alba, Busquets… only managed to win one of their last five games because of defensive shortcomings?”
According to the hosts, MLS’s strict roster and salary-cap policies are hindering Miami’s aspirations and impeding the league’s progress.
“Would Jorge Mas and David Beckham invest in better defensive players if they had the opportunity?” Guerreros questioned.
“Absolutely,” Polanco affirmed.
Guerreros pinpointed the core issue: “Having a player like Lionel Messi for three years is being hindered by these rules… Everyone is contributing to keep Messi, but the team lacks the defensive prowess.”
For fans and league officials anticipating Messi’s transformative impact on MLS, it’s a stark reality check. “You are impeding your own success,” Guerreros cautioned, advocating for change.
If MLS aims to shine on a global scale, it must allow stars like Messi to excel on the field, not just in name.
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