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Towards the MLS: Mbappé Could Follow Messi’s Path in the American League

By Arthur Fernandes

PARIS, FRANCE - JUNE 03: Kylian Mbappe of Paris Saint Germain (PSG) warming up before the French league football match between Paris Saint Germin (PSG) and Clermont Foot at Parc des Princes stadium, in Paris, on JUNE 03, 2023. (Photo by Ibrahim Ezzat/Anadolu Agency via Getty Images)
PARIS, FRANCE - JUNE 03: Kylian Mbappe of Paris Saint Germain (PSG) warming up before the French league football match between Paris Saint Germin (PSG) and Clermont Foot at Parc des Princes stadium, in Paris, on JUNE 03, 2023. (Photo by Ibrahim Ezzat/Anadolu Agency via Getty Images) /
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The Major League Soccer (MLS) is once again positioning itself as an attractive destination for international soccer stars, and now Kylian Mbappé, one of the most sought-after players in the world, could be the next to tread this path. Following in the footsteps of Lionel Messi, who recently made his impactful debut with Inter Miami, the MLS is exploring the possibility of bringing the young French star into its ranks.

The impact of Messi’s arrival in the United States didn’t go unnoticed. His presence instantly boosted interest, social media followers, and club revenues, while also enhancing the visibility and competitiveness of the league as a whole. Now, the minds behind MLS have turned their attention to Mbappé, seeing in him the next opportunity to further propel the league.

Paris Saint-Germain’s French forward Kylian Mbappe (L) and his younger brother Paris Saint-Germain’s French Midfielder Ethan Mbappe react as they take part in a training session at the new “campus” of French L1 Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) football club at Poissy, some 30kms west of Paris on July 20, 2023, ahead of the club’s Japan tour. (Photo by JULIEN DE ROSA / AFP) (Photo by JULIEN DE ROSA/AFP via Getty Images)
Paris Saint-Germain’s French forward Kylian Mbappe (L) and his younger brother Paris Saint-Germain’s French Midfielder Ethan Mbappe react as they take part in a training session at the new “campus” of French L1 Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) football club at Poissy, some 30kms west of Paris on July 20, 2023, ahead of the club’s Japan tour. (Photo by JULIEN DE ROSA / AFP) (Photo by JULIEN DE ROSA/AFP via Getty Images) /

The bold approach of the MLS in pursuing Mbappé reflects its ambition and innovation. The league isn’t just focused on the short term; it’s also considering how to establish a business model and structure that can attract world-class players, like Messi and potentially Mbappé. The statement by Don Garber, MLS Commissioner, about creating a unique framework to bring the French player is a clear indication that the league is willing to think outside the box.

However, the possibility of Mbappé moving to the MLS isn’t as straightforward as it may seem. The player is still in the last year of his contract with Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) and is associated with potential interest from Real Madrid. PSG, on the other hand, might prefer a sale in this transfer market to avoid a free transfer next year. Additionally, it remains to be seen if the 24-year-old Mbappé would be willing to leave Europe for a new adventure in the United States.

The MLS is certainly becoming an increasingly attractive destination for internationally renowned players. The arrivals of stars like David Beckham, Thierry Henry, and Zlatan Ibrahimovic in the past have already showcased the league’s potential to attract global talent. If the league manages to secure Mbappé’s signature, it would be a significant milestone in its quest to establish itself as a top-tier competition on the global stage.

Ultimately, the potential transfer of Kylian Mbappé to the MLS is a reminder of the drawing power and influence that the American league is gaining. As the world’s eyes continue to focus on transfer market moves, the MLS is demonstrating its determination to become a premier destination for world-class players, making it clear that it’s ready to compete on the international stage boldly and innovatively.

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