Lionel Messi isn't enough! MLS told they must make their own American heroes to inspire next generation

The World Cup-winning Argentina skipper's arrival at Inter Miami in the summer created a ripple in the US soccer. However, the former Netherlands international feels that the United States must focus on creating more local heroes to inspire the next generation of soccer stars in the country.

Speaking to GamblingZone, Gullit said: "For me, the thing is that [the US] needs local heroes. That’s the point, you know, and Pulisic is the last one, it’s [not constant]. They need local heroes in order to make their own game better. Messi is interesting because it’s Messi. And especially because of the Spanish enclave there. The most important thing for them is their hero. The Americans themselves, [however], they need heroes as well. They need a certain calibre of player who has done really well in Europe. That’s what they need."

The former AC Milan star admitted that making big money signings have surely impacted the league's popularity in a positive way as he added: "That is something that they did first with Beckham, that they did really well to grow the popularity of the game in America. They did it with Beckham and now they’re doing it with Messi, but in the end, you need a local hero in order for the American kids to say: ‘Hey, I have a chance'."

The 36-year-old had a fruitful debut campaign in America where he appeared in 14 matches across all competitions scoring 11 goals and providing five assists. He also won his maiden trophy with Inter Miami as the David Beckham-owned side won the Leagues Cup in its inaugural edition.

The Argentine star will be back in action for his club in February as the Herons are all set to tour Asia for pre-season for the first time in history. The American side will face the Hong Kong Team – a collection of the best players from the Hong Kong First Division League - on February 4.