Apple TV chief urges more Lionel Messi-style transfers for 2024 MLS campaign as he lauds Inter Miami for bringing ‘excitement’ to the U.S.

Ahead of the Herons' home-opener Wednesday evening, the head of Apple TV's collaboration with MLS, Eddie Cue, spoke on the importance of having a player like Messi bringing viewership to MLS. The Senior Vice-President of Services told reporters that viewers in South America and Europe have subscribed as a result of the Argentine's heroic performances at the South Beach club.

"I'm excited that there are teams that are definitely pushing hard. Obviously what Inter Miami has done is an example of that and I think there needs to be more teams doing that and I think there will be," Cue said. "At least I've seen it enough now that there's a level of excitement... when anybody asks what do I want from anybody, any of the teams, I'm like, sign some more players!"

Since arriving in MLS last Summer, the Argentine has taken the league by storm. He led them to the inaugural Leagues Cup title and has helped bring in talent like ex-Barcelona superstar Luis Suarez and incoming transfer Federico Redondo - son of Real Madrid great, Fernando.

Now, other teams are slowly getting inspiration from the blockbuster transfer, like FC Dallas - who just spent $12m on striker Petar Musa from Portuguese side Benfica.

The Herons take on the Los Angeles Galaxy Sunday evening, with Inter Miami looking to earn their second positive result of the season. For the Western Conference club, they'll look to stop Messi in his tracks as he looks to open his 2024 account.