Is Major League Soccer (MLS) lacking quality? That’s a question that has been raised by many critics and skeptics over the years. However, Argentina national team manager Lionel Scaloni has a different perspective. In a recent press conference, Scaloni defended the quality of MLS and expressed his belief that the league is improving and attracting top footballers.
Scaloni’s comments came during the Argentina Football Federation’s official announcement about their North American expansion. The 45-year-old coach attended Inter Miami’s 4-0 victory over Charlotte FC, which secured Lionel Messi’s side a spot in the Leagues Cup semifinals. A reporter at the press conference questioned the competitiveness and quality of MLS, suggesting that it does not meet the standards that Argentines are accustomed to.
In response, Scaloni stated, “I don’t think the level (in MLS) is bad. On the contrary, I was at Inter Miami’s game versus Charlotte (FC) and I didn’t think it was bad. In fact, the level was acceptable. Every football match is difficult. You have to play them. There’s no doubt that MLS is a league that’s trending up. It’s improving and it’s attracting footballers to come and play here.”
Scaloni acknowledged the challenges that MLS presents but also highlighted the presence of good teams and talented players in the league. He expressed his belief that MLS will continue to improve and attract even better players in the future.
AFA president Claudia Tapia also chimed in on the discussion, pointing out the number of Argentine players who currently play in MLS. She mentioned players like Thiago Almada from Atlanta United, who was part of Argentina’s squad at the 2022 World Cup. Tapia emphasized that these Argentine players, including young talents like Facundo Farías and Tomas Avilés, will add competitiveness to the league.
Tapia also praised the Leagues Cup, a competition that brings together MLS and Liga MX clubs. She believes it provides an opportunity for MLS teams to test their quality against more established Mexican clubs. Tapia even drew a comparison between Messi’s arrival at Inter Miami and Diego Maradona’s signing with Napoli in 1984, which led to a turnaround in the club’s fortunes. Messi has already made a significant impact in MLS, scoring nine goals in six Leagues Cup matches.
The discussion about the quality of MLS is not new. Critics often compare it to more established leagues in Europe and South America, such as the Copa Libertadores, South America’s premier club tournament. However, Scaloni and Tapia’s comments shed light on the positive aspects of MLS and its potential for growth.
Inter Miami, the team Scaloni watched during his visit to Miami, is on the verge of qualifying for the CONCACAF Champions Cup, the region’s equivalent of the UEFA Champions League. A win over Philadelphia Union or a triumph in the Leagues Cup third-place match would secure their spot in the prestigious tournament.
Scaloni concluded his remarks by drawing a parallel between Messi’s arrival at Inter Miami and Maradona’s impact on Napoli. He highlighted how Maradona transformed Napoli from a relatively unknown club to a title-winning team. Scaloni emphasized the importance of Messi being able to compete and showcase his abilities in MLS, pointing out the impressive performances he has already delivered.
In conclusion, Lionel Scaloni’s defense of MLS and his belief in its improving quality provide a fresh perspective on the league. While critics may continue to question its competitiveness, Scaloni’s firsthand experience and observations suggest that MLS is on an upward trajectory. With the presence of talented players and the potential for further growth, MLS has the opportunity to establish itself as a top league in the world of football.