"Changing the sports culture of the country" - USMNT coach Mauricio Pochettino details Lionel Messi's impact in the United States

United States national team head coach Mauricio Pochettino admitted that Lionel Messi’s arrival in the Major League Soccer (MLS) has significantly impacted how younger people perceive football in the country.

Since Messi joined Inter Miami in 2023, both the viewership and the global profile of the MLS have undoubtedly been boosted. The Argentine icon’s presence has also attracted other top players from Europe, and more are likely to join in the future.

In an interview with the BBC, Pochettino stated that Messi has revolutionized football in the United States, noting that kids who used to be interested in other sports like basketball or baseball have now developed an interest in the round leather game.

“Messi is changing the sports culture of the country. Before, kids dreamed of playing basketball or American football; now they also want to become soccer players,” Pochettino said.

Notably, before Lionel Messi signed for Inter Miami, the Florida-based club used to struggle in the lower echelons of the top-flight football division in the U.S. However, the Herons have seen their fortunes transformed since signing Messi, winning their first-ever trophy in the Argentine’s debut season with the inaugural Leagues Cup in 2023. They complemented it with the Supporters’ Shield the following season, winning it in style.

Lionel Messi honoured with key to the City of Miami

On Wednesday, November 5, Lionel Messi was presented with the key to the City of Miami by Mayor Francis Suarez after speaking at the American Business Forum at Kaseya Center. The Mayor praised Messi for his contributions and achievements with Inter Miami and the football world at large.

“I have had the wish to give this [key] to you for all that you've done for our grand city, our country and the world of football, thank you," Suarez said.

Inter Miami co-owner Jorge Mas also paid tribute to Messi at the ceremony, saying:

“I want to share and say something about our Inter Miami captain, our number 10. This is a small gift from this city, which has captured the hearts of all of us. This is a welcome not only for you but also for wife Antonela and your beautiful family, so that you can always feel at home here."

Upon receiving the key, Lionel Messi expressed delight to live in Miami and appreciated the Mayor of Miami for the honour. The eight-time Ballon d’Or winner led the Herons to a third-place finish in the Eastern Conference table of the 2025 regular MLS season. Although they missed out on the league title, Messi finished the season with 29 goals and clinched his first-ever MLS Golden Boot award.

Edited by Ezekiel Olamide