Kasey Keller questions MLS future after Messi's retirement
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 18, 2026, 6:05 AM
Last updated Sep 18, 2026
Former USMNT goalkeeper Kasey Keller expressed concern for MLS after Lionel Messi's eventual retirement. Keller stated that the league must prioritize its clubs and supporters instead of relying on star players like Messi, who has drawn significant attention since joining Inter Miami in 2023. He acknowledged that while MLS has capitalized on Messi's presence, the focus should shift back to team development. Keller supports the Designated Player rule but advocates for eased financial restrictions, allowing clubs more freedom in player acquisitions. Messi, now 39, remains influential, but Keller's comments highlight the uncertainty facing the league post-Messi.
- •Keller questions MLS's reliance on star players after Messi retires.
- •Messi joined Inter Miami in 2023 and has drawn global attention.
- •Keller supports loosening financial restrictions for teams in MLS.
- •Inter Miami's co-owner David Beckham backs Messi for another Ballon d’Or.
- 6:05 AMYahoo Sports — ‘What then?’: Ex-USMNT GK Kasey Keller’s surprising take on MLS after Lionel Messi retires
"Former USMNT goalkeeper Kasey Keller has questioned what comes next for MLS once Lionel Messi retires, insisting the league cannot rely on one superstar forever. Messi’s arrival at Inter Miami in 2023 brought global attention to MLS, with the Argentine continuing to make headlines during his time in the league.
Sources
External linksOriginal reporting and copyright belong to the linked sources. SportsNewsReport.com aggregates and links — it does not republish full articles.
Related Stories
Last 14 days
MLS•Sep 18, 2026, 6:15 AMPaul Pogba refuses to hang up his boots despite failing to recover from the thigh injury he suffered before Monaco contract termination
MLS•Sep 17, 2026, 9:35 PMBarcelona legend Messi receives another high-profile backer to win the Ballon d’Or
MLS•Sep 17, 2026, 7:29 PMMessi, MLS' Garber appear to have heated exchange after Miami win
MLS•Sep 17, 2026, 7:24 PMMatchday 27: California rivals, Eastern Conference heavyweights & more!
MLS•Sep 17, 2026, 6:45 PMAll the records Lionel Messi set and extended with latest Inter Miami trophy
MLS•Sep 17, 2026, 5:10 PMLionel Messi & Inter Miami host San Diego in cross-conference clash