Major League Soccer news

Lionel Messi was tackled to the turf by a pitch-invading fan during Inter Miami’s chaotic friendly clash with Independiente del Valle. The MLS Cup winners had been due to face Ecuadorian opponents on February 13, but the contest had to be rearranged. It eventually took place in Puerto Rico on February 26, with Argentine GOAT Messi among the stars on show.

Major League Soccer’s 2026 campaign is off to a historic start, translating packed stadiums into a significant spike in national and international viewership. After posting the highest Opening Weekend attendance in league history, MLS reported record viewership across linear television and streaming platforms — a 59 percent increase compared to the same point last season.

EXCLUSIVE: The former NFL star discusses launching GOAL’s The Late Run with Ochocinco and the roots of his love for the beautiful game.

Chad Ochocinco Johnson and Rahimovic sit down with comedy legend Bert Kreischer for a conversation that goes everywhere: soccer culture in Florida, Messi mania in Miami, the World Cup 2026 “last dance” talk, and the comedy Mount Rushmore. Bert retells The Machine origin story, breaks down what makes a great comedian, and somehow ends up pledging to become a real soccer fan.

After a defining era in the Spanish capital, French star Antoine Griezmann is preparing for an unexpected mid-season departure to the United States. As negotiations reach their final stages, one of La Liga's most iconic figures is ready to embrace a fresh challenge across the Atlantic, leaving a massive void in Atletico Madrid, just as the European campaign hits its critical climax.

Los Angeles FC star Denis Bouanga has signed a new contract, committing his future to the club amid reported interest from abroad. The winger has signed a deal that runs through 2028, with an option through the 2029-30 season. Since joining LAFC in 2022, the 31-year-old has scored 94 overall goals - moving him past Carlos Vela as the club's all-time scorer.

The Brazilian playmaker insisted to GOAL that his inspiration as a footballer comes from one of the game's greats, and hopes that channeling a bit of his samba flair can bring the MLS Cup to Cincinnati.

MLS has hired Korn Ferry, an independent search firm, as they begin the hunt for a new commissioner, according to Sportico. The firm will be tasked with identifying and evaluating candidates for commissioner, with Don Garber's term set to end in 2027. Garber, who has been in office since 1999, hasn't ruled out pursuing another term in office.

Inter Miami superstar Lionel Messi has revealed the "romantic" way he proposed to childhood sweetheart Antonela Roccuzzo during their time in Barcelona. Messi first met Antonela when he was just five years old and the couple went on to marry in 2017 in a huge event in Rosario, Argentina. The family now live in Miami with their three young sons Thiago, Mateo and Ciro.

Inter Miami and Argentina superstar Lionel Messi has admitted that he regrets not learning English when he was younger. The 38-year-old spent the majority of his career in Spain with Barcelona but now plys his trade in the United States in Major League Soccer. Messi says the language barrier has left him feeling "half ignorant" at times when he has met other "incredible and spectacular personalities."

Barcelona presidential candidate Victor Font has revealed he has had conversations with club legend Lionel Messi over a potential return to Camp Nou if he wins next month's elections. Font says he wants to give Messi the chance to say goodbye to Barcelona "in whatever way he chooses" and is also willing to offer him the role of honorary president at the club.

GOAL breaks down the big move and what it means for all of those involved.

Robert Lewandowski is reluctant to leave Barcelona as a free agent and has reportedly set a goal target that will help him to earn a contract extension. The prolific Polish striker, who is now 37 years of age, is said to have a “very good” offer on the table from MLS side the Chicago Fire. He is ready to delay any move to the United States and remain in Catalunya.

Orlando City are reportedly in talks to sign Atletico Madrid attacking midfielder Antoine Griezmann, according to The Athletic. The former France captain has a long-standing interest in Major League Soccer, and the Florida club is eager to sign the former France captain before the primary transfer window shuts on March 26. Griezmann has six goals in La Liga this season.