Lionel Messi could make his debut for Inter Miami in less than a week – and former Premier League star goalkeeper Brad Friedel has given his assessment on the standard of MLS
Lionel Messi has been told Major League Soccer is comparable to La Liga 2 as he gears up for his Inter Miami debut.
On Saturday, Inter Miami officially announced the signing of Messi by showcasing the forward donning the club’s pink shirt with the number 10 displayed on the back. The 36-year-old reportedly signed a two-and-a-half year deal with the MLS franchise, keeping him with the club through 2025.
As part of his contract, Messi will reportedly receive a compensation package that includes part of Apple TV’s revenue generated by MLS Season Pass as well as a share of Adidas profits from his arrival. He helped lead Paris-Saint Germain to Ligue 1 glory last season – and former USMNT star Brad Friedel suggested the level will be below what Messi is accustomed to.
“It’s really hard to compare the MLS to any standard of English football because the style is so different,” Friedel said to OLBG. “The Championship for example is a midweek to weekend slog throughout the season, especially in those dreary winter months.