The fortunes have changed for American soccer with Lionel Messi coming in. Increased fan engagement and viewership around the world are just a few up for the Major Soccer League after the talisman’s arrival. But more importantly, the initiators and reason behind the move Inter Miami have also been one of the biggest beneficiaries, with progress in performance and branding. The team stands number one in the Eastern Conference table and has the chance to win their maiden league title. However, despite the paradigm change, a USMNT star Tyler Adams doesn’t give hold them high in a competition like the Premier League.

Speaking to Goal, Adams revealed how a team like Inter Miami could not compete high at the table in the English top tier. When asked about where Inter Miami would finish if they were in PL, he replied instantly saying, “Not high.” He further praised the English League for its standards and said, “I mean like whenever you try to make these comparisons and stuff like that, Prem top to bottom is by far the most competitive league. I mean it’s not even close.” Adams plays for Bournemouth AFC, acquired a couple of years of experience playing in the British top flight, and is aware of the effort it takes.

Citing further reason he stated, “Even watching this year teams like Nottingham Everton that are obviously very good teams
struggle to stay up I mean even our team,” revealing that David Beckham’s club is not even close compared to some mid and lower-table clubs.

Adams also played in the Bundesliga with RB Leipzig where he was a regular starter and even for Leeds United, but was finding it hard to star regularly in Bournemouth. The difference in league was also pointed out by a report by Opta in March which placed the MLS in the 10th strongest and the Premier League as the first. However, the Herons’ improvement inside the MLS has been commendable.

Inter Miami’s performance without Lionel Messi shows drastic progress

The team in Pink has struggled to make a name for itself since its inaugural season in 2020. However, after the arrival of Lionel Messi in 2023, the tides have turned for them. Winning the League’s Cup and dominating MLS currently, the quality is evident. However, the team has also shunned the notion that it’s entirely dependent on its captain. The team has not lost a match since Messi left for his national team duties.

Moreover, a clinical show crushing the current champions Columbus Crew despite lacking the firepower of Messi and Luiz Suarez is satisfying for the fans. Inter Miami won a single game without the Argentine skipper until March this season. But now the team has not lost a game in his absence since then. However, despite the recent upgrade, the question of whether they could compete in the Premier League will remain a debate.