Lionel Messi’s joining Inter Miami has significantly changed Major League Soccer, raising the league’s global profile and drawing elite players to the U.S. However, some concerns have been raised about the club’s management.
Former DC United and Atlanta United player Mateusz Klich made headlines with strong statements during an interview with Foot Truck. Klich suggested that Messi’s father, Jorge Messi, plays a prominent role in the club’s affairs and warned players against joining Miami while Messi is there.
“I don’t recommend Miami while Messi is there. It’s chaotic; people are leaving, including coaches and physiotherapists. The organization is poorly managed. Messi’s father [Jorge] effectively runs the club. All communication happens in Spanish, and you need his approval for everything. The club is also located 45-50 minutes away from Miami,” Klich stated.
Since Messi’s arrival in 2023, he has had a clear impact on Inter Miami. Soon after his signing, former Barcelona teammates Jordi Alba and Luis Suarez joined the team, enhancing the club’s high-profile lineup. Reports suggest that Inter Miami is looking to extend Messi’s contract, with news expected soon.
Mateusz Klich #43 of Atlanta United passes the ball against Nashville SC. (Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images)
Klich on MLS teams and cities
After critiquing Inter Miami, Klich shared insights on which MLS clubs and cities he would recommend to players. “I would recommend New York. The Red Bull has a better stadium now, but City is also building an impressive venue. Clubs like Columbus Crew and Cincinnati have great stadiums and solid support, but living there can be dull,” he remarked.
He also suggested Nashville as a prime option. “I would recommend Nashville for those considering Nashville SC. It’s a lovely city, the capital of the country. Portland and Seattle offer a lively atmosphere, but they feel remote,” Klich added.
Lastly, Klich expressed his overall view on MLS, emphasizing its quality despite its perception abroad. “It’s a great league. I didn’t expect it to be this challenging. The lifestyle in the U.S. can be tough, and MLS is often viewed as semi-professional by the media. But after training with my teammates, I recognized it’s a great league,” he concluded.