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Breaking News: CONMEBOL's decision to allow Messi to play in the Copa Libertadores with Inter Miami

Game-Changing Decision Set to Transform South American Football.

By Ramiro Diaz

Lionel Messi
Lionel Messi
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The prospect of seeing Lionel Messi compete in the Copa Libertadores, South America's most prestigious club tournament, has always been a tantalising prospect for football fans. Now, according to reports from Pasión Fútbol, this possibility could become a reality in 2026, thanks to a CONMEBOL initiative to integrate teams from Liga MX (Mexico) and MLS (USA) into the competition. This news opens a historic door for Messi, wearing the Inter Miami shirt, to participate in the Libertadores for the first time in his career.

The Return of Mexican Teams and the Inclusion of MLS: A Historic Shift

The Copa Libertadores has previously featured Mexican clubs, who competed intermittently between 1998 and 2016. However, the inclusion of MLS teams would represent an unprecedented milestone. This expansion, driven by CONMEBOL, would not only raise the level of competition in the tournament but also generate greater global interest, attracting new audiences and sponsors.

The decision to include teams from both North American leagues responds to a strategy of growth and globalisation of South American football. CONMEBOL seeks to strengthen its ties with other confederations and capitalise on the growing interest in football in the United States, especially following the arrival of figures like Lionel Messi to MLS.

Messi and the Libertadores: A Shared Longing

The mere thought of Lionel Messi playing in the Copa Libertadores generates enormous anticipation. Despite his incredibly successful career, filled with titles for Barcelona, Paris Saint-Germain, and the Argentine national team, the Libertadores is one of the few trophies missing from his impressive collection. For many fans, seeing Messi compete in this tournament would be a dream come true.

Messi's arrival at Inter Miami in 2023 revolutionised football in the United States and had a global impact. His presence in MLS has raised the league's profile and attracted the attention of millions of fans. Now, the possibility of seeing him in the Libertadores adds a new chapter to this story, creating a unique synergy between the player, the club, and the tournament.

Inter Miami: An Unexpected Protagonist

Inter Miami, a relatively young club compared to the historical giants of South America, would become an unexpected protagonist in the Copa Libertadores thanks to Messi's presence. The team, owned by David Beckham, has shown great ambition since its inception, and the arrival of the Argentine star has catapulted their aspirations.

Participating in the Libertadores would represent a major challenge for Inter Miami, who would face teams with a long tradition and a rich history in the tournament. However, with Messi in their ranks, the American team would have the ability to compete on equal terms with any opponent.

The Economic and Sporting Impact of Inclusion

The inclusion of Mexican and MLS teams in the Copa Libertadores would have a significant impact both economically and sportingly. From an economic point of view, the tournament would benefit from a greater flow of revenue from television rights, sponsorships, and ticket sales. Messi's presence, in particular, would generate enormous media and commercial interest.

From a sporting perspective, the competition would be raised to a new level. Liga MX and MLS teams would bring a different playing style and new talents, enriching the tournament and creating more attractive matches for the public.

The Challenges and Negotiations

While CONMEBOL's intention is clear, several challenges remain to be overcome to realise the inclusion of Mexican and MLS teams in the Copa Libertadores. The qualifying criteria, the tournament format, and the commercial agreements with the leagues involved must be defined.

Negotiations between CONMEBOL, Liga MX, and MLS will be crucial to reach an agreement that benefits all parties. Aspects such as the match schedule, travel logistics, and revenue distribution will need to be considered.

A Promising Future for Continental Football

The possible inclusion of Mexican and MLS teams in the Copa Libertadores represents an important step towards the integration of football in the Americas. This move could lay the foundation for greater cooperation between different confederations and for the creation of new tournaments that strengthen the development of the sport in the region.

Lionel Messi's presence in the Copa Libertadores would be the icing on the cake, a historic event that would mark a before and after in South American football. Football fans across the continent eagerly await this dream to become a reality in 2026.


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