Lionel Messi's decision to join Inter Miami of Major League Soccer had historical precedent on many levels. Despite it's failure, the first MLS team in Miami -- the Fusion -- attempted to harness the unique location and demographic makeup of the south Florida to the benefit of soccer in America. With a strong connection to Latin America, stars like Carlos Valderrama wore Fusion colors in an attempt to create fan interest and help grow the game in the United States.
While those elements felt familiar, luring the best players in the world and greatest player of all time to Miami to play for the second iteration of an MLS team in the city seemed unlikely. And, yet, Messi arrived in 2023 and changed the landscape of sports in the city and soccer in America.
Michelle Kaufman is a long-tenured sports writer for the Miami Herald, with a deep focus on international sports. She was working for the paper when the Fusion played and then saw the establishment of Inter Miami. Kaufman covered Beckham putting roots in the city, working with the Mas brothers to buy the club and ultimately bringing Messi to the team.
She joined Founding Futbol to share her recollections and insights about the evolution of soccer in Miami and America. She also talks about the significance of Messi's decision and shares how she's seen it impact the city.
Founding Futbol is a year-long exploration of the critical moments that have led to soccer's emerging popularity in America.
Visit our website for more information: FoundingFutbol.com. Email us at kent@foundingfutbol.com
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Host: Kent Malmros
Guest: Michelle Kaufman (Sportswriter, Miami Herald)
