MLS season kicks off: Inter Miami favored, Messi the MVP favorite

The MLS season kicks off Saturday, with Inter Miami clear favorites after last year’s title. Lionel Messi remains the focal point of their hopes, and the squad added more talent around him. LAFC, the Vancouver Whitecaps, FC Cincinnati and Charlotte are among the other clubs aiming to make a splash.

Writers offered contrasting takes on who will lift MLS Cup. Tom Hindle suggested Miami should be favorites but warned LAFC could beat them in the final, while Ryan Tolmich pointed to Miami’s reinforcements — Dayne St. Clair, German Berterame, Sergio Reguillon and Rodrigo de Paul — and said Messi keeps them ahead of the pack.

Both picked Messi as the most likely MVP, though fitness is the main caveat; he won the award despite playing just 19 games in 2024. Evander, a fully fit Thomas Muller and Son Heung-Min were mentioned as possible challengers. On signings and surprises, Michael Bradley will coach the New York Red Bulls, James Rodriguez could be a brief spark for Minnesota, and Timo Werner was tipped to reach double figures in goals.

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