Terry Phelan Wants Lionel Messi To Leave MLS: 'It's Not Healthy...'
Terry Phelan thinks that Lionel Messi needs tougher competition than MLS for the FIFA World Cup, suggesting the Saudi Pro League could enhance Messi's performance.
Former Manchester City left-back Terry Phelan has said that if Lionel Messi wants to develop an 'appetite' ahead of the FIFA World Cup next year, he needs to ensure that he plays in a tournament which provides strong competition and not Major League Soccer because it isn't healthy for him.
Speaking to GOAL, Phelan said that the American league wasn't ideal for Messi as he was finding it too easy on the field.
Phelan said that the Saudi Pro League teams performed well in the FIFA Club World Cup and the league could help Messi raise his level again before taking the field with the Argentina team in 2026.
'That's the $100 million question isn't it. I think David Beckham has done a wonderful job at Miami. He's built a club with the support around him and a support network," Phelan said.
'Are we looking at Messi looking at the World Cup and going 'I need to play in a better competition because I need to be in form for the World Cup next year?' Saudi Arabia? He doesn't need the money to go and play there," Phelan added.
Meanwhile, Messi had two goals and two assists, Telasco Segovia scored twice as well and Inter Miami defeated the New York Red Bulls 5-1 on Saturday, July 19.
It was Messi's sixth multi-goal match in his last seven games. He became the fifth player in Major League Soccer history to record at least 35 goals and 25 assists over two years, joining Robbie Keane (2013-14), Sebastian Giovinco (2015-16), Carlos Vela (2018-19), and Cucho Hernández (2023-24).
Miami scored two goals in three minutes midway through the first half to take the lead. Messi's beautiful pass to Jordi Alba tied it at 1-all in the 24th minute. Then Messi's lofted pass over the defense led to Segovia's first goal.
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