Skala Panoramica

Lionel Messi is preparing for a record-breaking sixth World Cup appearance, but the player heading to the tournament is unrecognizable from the teenager who first burst onto the scene. While most elite stars adapt to decline, the Inter Miami talisman has spent two decades adapting to stay ahead of the game.

Phil Neville has left the Portland Timbers by mutual consent after a poor run of MLS results. The former Manchester United defender departs with the club sitting third from bottom in the Western Conference and eight points adrift of the automatic play-off spots.

Lionel Messi and Co. remain favorites, but strong starts from Nashville, San Jose and Vancouver have the league nicely poised heading into a long break.