Lionel Messi Kicks Off MLS Season Tonight And It's Going To Be Awesome

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"Get ready everyone, soccer is back!"

If you're like me, those words never meant too much. Soccer, really? In America? 

That is, of course, until Lionel Messi came to the United States last year and lit up the soccer world and sparked an energy like it's never had before here. 

And get ready everyone because this year is about to be ELECTRIC for Inter Miami CF. 

MESSI AND INNER MIAMI CF 

After acquiring Messi halfway through the season, the international superstar helped lead the team to it's first Leagues Cup title as well as the U.S. Open Cup final where it fell 2-1 to Houston Dynamo FC.

This year, however, the team picked up some of Messi's former teammates as they look to dominate. Inter Miami picked up Luis Suarez, who is known as one of the best strikers in the game. Combined with Jordi Alba and Sergio Busquets and led by returning head coach Tata Martino, the team is completely stacked.

As I've previously written, Lionel Messi has the ability to be a STUD in America. A pop culture / sports crossover that will lead him into commercials and movie placements and more. This guy just brings attention everywhere he goes - both because of his dominant play, but also his desire to still be a regular guy that shops at Publix and causes absolute SCENES.

THE MESSI EFFECT

Besides the sheer popularity among soccer fans, Messi will also bring in a lot of casual fans as well. 

He's a proven concept. "The Messi effect is real," if you would. Jersey sales are through the roof, he's been able to boost Apple TV+ subscribers, and he was even able to get football stadiums to get rid of their awful turf and replace it with the much-preferred grass. NFL players could never!

Between Messi and the replacement referees that will be making their debut Wednesday night and will be around for the foreseeable future because of a collective bargaining agreement, tonight's game and the matches to come will be must-see. Between Messi's phenomenal play and also the chaos that the replacement refs may cause? Crack a beer and let's go.