Lionel Messi-led Inter Miami made club history last December after winning their first-ever Major League Soccer (MLS) Cup. And now, one Herons star has boldly suggested that lifting the MLS title is more difficult than winning the UEFA Champions League.
Lionel Messi’s Inter Miami Teammate Rodrigo De Paul Calls MLS Format Tougher Than UCL
During a recent interaction, new Inter Miami permanent signing Rodrigo De Paul stated that the MLS is tougher to win than the Champions League due to its distinct structure.
“I think it’s harder to win the MLS than the Champions League. I know it sounds crazy, but the format of MLS is really tough. You have to play perfectly all the time,” De Paul, who has won a FIFA World Cup and two Copa America trophies so far, commented.
De Paul, 31, relished a fine first six months in the MLS after initially joining Messi’s team on loan from Atletico Madrid last July. He found the back of the net twice while providing seven assists in 23 appearances across all competitions for the Herons last year.
The 2025 MLS Cup winner, who started all six of Inter Miami’s MLS play-off outings in 2025, has played in the UEFA Champions League 34 times. He represented La Liga teams Atlético Madrid and Valencia 32 times, including twice in the competition, netting two goals.
Meanwhile, the Argentine is likely to start in Inter Miami’s 2026 MLS season opener against Los Angeles FC (LAFC) at LA Memorial Coliseum this Saturday, Feb. 21.
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On the other hand, former MLS forward Robert Earnshaw has suggested Messi could still be impactful in top European leagues, despite the Herons captain being 38.
“It’s really special that we get to see (him play) still. But he can play in any league and any international team as well. He could play in the UEFA Champions League now. Three weeks before he retires, he would still be able to play at that level,” Earnshaw told GOAL.
“In every detail and area of his game, Messi will be able to make an impact in any league… that is why he can choose. It doesn’t matter if he is playing against Barcelona, Real Madrid or LA Galaxy, he will still be able to make a big impact,” the Welshman added.
Messi, who will turn 39 this June, was named the MLS Most Valuable Player (MVP) in 2025. He led his club from the front during their successful MLS campaign, contributing 43 goals and 26 assists in 49 total games for the Javier Mascherano-coached club last year.
