The former US national team star believes that the increase in ticket prices due to many clubs following Messi ‘s name, along with the rise of fans following the movement, is negatively affecting the fan experience. authentic.
It must be admitted that Lionel Messi has changed the face of MLS, bringing in millions of new audiences since he joined Inter Miami as a free agent last July. Thousands of fans bought tickets just to catch a glimpse of the Argentine star, with many rival fans appearing more excited to support Messi than cheering for their home team.
However, this has contributed to a sudden increase in the number of “virtual” fans just to satisfy curiosity, after co-owner Beckham’s deal to bring the striker who won the Golden Ball 8 times to the US. Former player Gomez clearly expressed his opinion on ESPN: “What I do not agree with is that other teams advertise Messi and see the opportunity for Messi to play to enhance his reputation too much. It’s clear that Messi is being taken advantage of and people are trying to exploit him.
I see a lot of offensive comments, like “Come see Messi score against us”. But actually that’s okay if you like to do it. It is worth mentioning that raising the ticket price of the match because of Messi’s appearance is unacceptable. This is a big problem, although I see the league’s managers shrug off responsibility by explaining that they cannot control the club’s business tactics.
I think it’s true, the Organizing Committee cannot control what Inter will do, but they can always control the club not to raise ticket prices to unacceptable and unreasonable levels. I think MLS should not let people take advantage of Messi’s name and image to do this stupid thing.”
Gomez’s comments came shortly after Inter Miami’s 2-1 victory over the Vancouver Whitecaps in MLS over the weekend. Notably, coach Martino rested Lionel Messi, along with Sergio Busquets and Luis Suarez, former Barca stars. And this made many Vancouver fans angry, as they simultaneously chanted: “Where is Messi?”, instead of supporting the home team.
Lionel Messi is in excellent form this season for Inter Miami, scoring 12 goals and assisting 11 times in 13 appearances in all competitions. Messi’s team also showed resilience to win 2-1 against Vancouver. Robert Taylor opened the scoring in the 38th minute before Leonardo Campana doubled Inter Miami’s lead early in the second half.
Ryan Gauld shortened the score to 1-2 with a penalty in the 72nd minute, but the away team played good defense in the final minutes to win. Inter Miami is currently at the top of the MLS Eastern rankings with 34 points after 16 matches, 1 point ahead of Cincinnati even though this opponent still has a match in hand. Next match, Messi and his teammates will face Atlanta United on May 29.
