Messi Year XXI

This Saturday, February 22, Major League Soccer returns to action. The top soccer competition in the United States will kick off with Los Angeles FC vs. Minnesota United at 1:30 p.m. local time (4:30 p.m. ET, 10:30 p.m. Spanish time). With the introduction of a new franchise, San Diego FC, a total of 30 teams will battle through the regular season, with 16 advancing to the playoffs—only one will emerge as champion.

For the first time since his arrival, Lionel Messi is the frontrunner to lift the trophy with Inter Miami. The Argentine superstar enters his 21st season as a professional and his second full campaign with Inter Miami. Last year, The Herons finished atop their conference during the regular season, but the goal this time is to win the league title for the first time in their history. Los Angeles FC and Los Angeles Galaxy are expected to be Messi’s toughest challengers in his quest for MLS dominance.

The Inter Miami stars

MLS isn’t just about Messi. The league boasts a mix of seasoned legends and rising stars looking to make their mark in American soccer. Several title contenders have world-class talent in their ranks.

Lionel Messi (Inter Miami): At 36, the Argentine icon remains the most influential player for both his club and national team. Inter Miami’s championship hopes rest largely on his shoulders.

Luis Suárez (Inter Miami): Despite ongoing knee issues, the Uruguayan striker’s goal-scoring instincts remain razor-sharp. Age and injuries may be working against him, but his exceptional finishing ability remains a potent weapon for the Florida side.

Sergio Busquets & Jordi Alba (Inter Miami): Two elite midfielders who continue to thrive under Javier Mascherano’s system. Having been some of Messi’s best teammates throughout his career, they bring world-class vision and experience to a squad that aims to dominate the league.

Marco Reus (Los Angeles Galaxy): The German playmaker enters a pressure-free season after playing a key role in LA Galaxy’s championship-winning campaign last year. Now, with his first career league title secured, he could unleash an even more expressive style of play.

Riqui Puig (Los Angeles Galaxy): After a stellar second half of last season, an injury kept the young Spanish midfielder from celebrating MLS Cup glory on the pitch. In early 2025, his recovery will be key to returning to his best form.

Olivier Giroud (Los Angeles FC): The veteran French striker is set to play a pivotal role as LAFC seeks to reclaim its spot at the top. Now fully adapted to MLS, he will be the focal point of an attack that thrives on direct play and aggressive movement.

Opening weekend fixtures

The opening weekend will feature a packed schedule of debut matches. While Los Angeles FC vs. Minnesota Unitedwill kick off the season, Inter Miami and Atlanta United will also play their first games on Saturday. Defending champions Los Angeles Galaxy will face San Diego FC in their first-ever official match.

Match schedule (Week 1)

Saturday, February 22

• Los Angeles FC vs. Minnesota United (1:30 p.m. PT / 4:30 p.m. ET / 10:30 p.m. CET)
• Atlanta United vs. CF Montréal (4:30 p.m. PT / 7:30 p.m. ET / 1:30 a.m. CET)
• Inter Miami vs. New York City (4:30 p.m. PT / 7:30 p.m. ET / 1:30 a.m. CET)

Sunday, February 23

• Los Angeles Galaxy vs. San Diego FC (4:00 p.m. PT / 7:00 p.m. ET / 1:00 a.m. CET)

The new faces

This offseason hasn’t seen an influx of high-profile signings, but a few notable arrivals and key moves could still shake things up. With the expanded Club World Cup approaching this summer, the market may heat up in the coming months.

Javier Mascherano (Inter Miami): Perhaps the most significant change isn’t on the field but on the sidelines. After Tata Martino’s unexpected departure for personal reasons, Inter Miami’s bench will now be led by Mascherano, a former teammate of Messi, Busquets, and Alba—a move that aligns perfectly with the club’s long-term ambitions.

Lucho Acosta (FC Dallas): The Argentine playmaker, MVP of the 2023 season, has switched conferences. His move to Dallas signals the club’s serious intent to compete for the title.

Miguel Almirón (Atlanta United): The prodigal son returns. After rejecting lucrative offers from Europe, the Paraguayan midfielder has opted to come back to the club where he became a star, having played a pivotal role in Atlanta’s 2018 championship before moving to Newcastle. Seven years later, he’s back.

Leo Campana (New England Revolution): After spending over a year as Messi’s go-to substitute in tight games, the Ecuadorian forward has sought a bigger role. His move to New England gives him the opportunity to be a franchise player and showcase his true ability.

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