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Lionel Messi Legacy GFX

LEGACY: Messi-mania - How Leo cracked America

This is Legacy, GOAL’s feature and podcast series that counts down to the 2026 World Cup. Each week, we explore the stories and the spirit behind the nations that define the world’s game. This week, we dive into the rise of the Lionel Messi in the United States, the emotional connection that transformed Miami, his seismic impact on U.S. soccer, and the possibility that the upcoming World Cup might offer him the most fitting stage of his career - one built around comfort, belonging, and a crowd that treats him like their own hero.

Mbekezeli Mbokazi and Puso Dithejane Chicago Fire movie

WATCH: Mbokazi & Dithejane movie - On the Rise

The Major Soccer League club has released a short 23-minute film featuring their two South African players' journeys from Mzansi to The Windy City. The movie arrives on the back of the news that the 20-year-old defender has received the most votes of any player for the 2026 MLS All-Star Game and will be the second South African, after Doctor Khumalo in 1996, to take the field in the game.

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FC Cincinnati v Inter Miami CF

Messi, Son among star-studded MLS All-Star XI for ASG clash

Lionel Messi has been selected to the MLS All Star team, and highlights a stacked roster after the initial round of fan, player and media voting. LAFC star Son Heung-Min was also selected, while USMNTers Tim Ream and Sebastian Berhalter also earned selections. With the initial XI selected, head coach Dean Smith and Commissioner Don Garber will round out the roster.

Real Salt Lake Stadium

RSL sued by former youth team goalie over allegations of hazing

Jeffrey Dewsnup, a former Real Salt Lake goalkeeper, is suing the MLS club for $100 million in punitive damages after alleging that the club failed to prevent a culture of hazing and misconduct that severely impacted his career. Dewsnup, now 22, claims in the suit that locker room misconduct and verbal abuse stunted his development in the game. He signed a professional contract with RSL in 2021.

Lionel Messi Argentina

Barca congratulate Messi on prestigious Spanish award

Lionel Messi has added yet another illustrious trophy to his unparalleled collection after being named the winner of the 2026 Princess of Asturias Award for Sports. The Inter Miami superstar succeeds tennis legend Serena Williams in receiving one of Spain's highest distinctions, sparking a wave of congratulations from across the globe, including from his former home at Barcelona.

Paul Pogba Monaco 2025-26

Pogba told two reasons why MLS or Saudi may be perfect

Paul Pogba has, following a disappointing return to competitive action at Monaco, been given two reasons why moves to MLS or the Saudi Pro League may be perfect at this stage of his career. John Arne Riise is among those to have been left frustrated at seeing the former Manchester United and Juventus midfielder flop in France and fail to reignite a lost spark.

messi

MLS sends record 44 active players to 2026 World Cup

MLS will be represented by a record 44 active players at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, the most of any league in the Western Hemisphere. The league also announced that 103 current and former MLS players will compete in the tournament, highlighting the growing impact of MLS clubs, academies, and MLS NEXT Pro on the global stage.

Benjamin Cremaschi, Parma

Report: Former Miami star Cremaschi makes Parma move permanent

Former Inter Miami midfielder Benjamin Cremaschi has reportedly made his Parma move permanent, after the Serie A club picked up his buy option for just under $5 million. The American made nine appearances for the Italian side before suffering a season-ending meniscus injury in March. His permanent departure would seem to open roster flexibility for the Herons.

Lionel Messi Cristiano Ronaldo 2026

American dream? Doubts cast over Messi & Ronaldo GOAT union

Doubts have been cast over whether a stunning GOAT union could take place in the United States as Cristiano Ronaldo joins eternal rival Lionel Messi in MLS. Philippe Senderos has told GOAL that two all-time greats remain on “different paths”, but the American game is being backed to create its own superstars as “football culture” continues to grow.

Inter Miami CF v Philadelphia Union

Is Messi a World Cup doubt? Inter Miami boss delivers injury update

Lionel Messi has sparked major injury fears just weeks before the 2026 World Cup after asking to come off during Inter Miami's chaotic 10-goal thriller against Philadelphia Union. The Argentina captain headed straight for the tunnel with a suspected muscle issue, prompting the Herons boss to deliver a crucial update on his star player's fitness.

Lionel Messi Inter Miami 2026

Lionel Messi exits Inter Miami match injured before World Cup

Lionel Messi exited Inter Miami's MLS match against the Philadelphia Union in the 73rd minute of the Herons' 6-4 win after grabbing the back of his leg while walking down the tunnel. The Argentina captain appeared to signal for a substitution moments earlier and was replaced by Mateo Silvetti with 20 minutes remaining. Argentina's World Cup camp begins June 1.