The 2024 Major League Soccer season leaves no doubt: Inter Miami is the most valuable team in the league. With an avalanche of major signings, led by Lionel Messi, David Beckham's club has skyrocketed in the market value ranking, leaving its rivals in the dust. For those who thought that soccer in the United States was still far removed from the great European centers, the reality has changed, and fast. What once seemed like a distant dream is now a matter of keeping your breath and trying to keep up with the pace set by the Herons.
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Inter Miami's heavy investment wasn't just a shot in the dark. When you bring Messi into your team, not only does the technical level of the team rise, but the added value to the club skyrockets. No wonder the Argentine is by far the most valuable player in the MLS, valued at an impressive 30 million euros. That figure alone makes a big difference, but Inter Miami didn't stop there. They've brought in promising youngsters like Federico Redondo, who at 21 has already shown what he's made of, and Diego Gómez, another name that adds significantly to the squad. With a total valuation of 96.78 million euros, the club has a considerable margin of comfort over its competitors.
But the MLS isn't just about Messi. Other clubs are also betting big to keep the league competitive and attractive. The Los Angeles Galaxy, for example, have always been a powerhouse in American soccer and don't want to lose their place in the sun. With a squad valued at 55.70 million euros, the club counts Riqui Puig and Gabriel Pec as its main assets. The Spaniard, who is among the best players in the competition, is the little engine that makes the team tick, while the Brazilian Pec has excelled in scoring goals. Both are essential for the Galaxy, who are looking to return to the top of the MLS.
Not far behind are the Columbus Crew, who, with a market value of 54.55 million euros, occupy third place in the Eastern Conference. The team has Cucho Hernández, who has an impressive eye for goal, and Diego Rossi, whose vision and precise passing contribute significantly to the team's success. The Crew may not have the same media buzz as Inter Miami, but on the pitch they've shown that they have firepower too.
Another team worth mentioning is the Philadelphia Union, with a market value of 52.38 million euros. The team has been trying to establish itself, but is still outside the qualification zone for the final series of the MLS. Midfielder Dániel Gazdag, who carries the team on his back, is the team's most valuable player. With 21 games played, he has been a key player in setting up plays and contributing offensively. Right back, Kai Wagner also stands out, but Union still need to find the necessary balance to fight on equal terms and climb the league table.
On the other side of the country, Los Angeles FC continue their meteoric rise. With a market value of 51.85 million euros, the Californian club is getting closer to reaping the rewards of good planning. The race for top spot in the Western Conference is fierce, but LA FC have big names like Hugo Lloris and Olivier Giroud, world champions with the French national team. However, the team's standout performer is Denis Bouanga, who has been a terror for opposing defenses, scoring 16 goals in 24 games. If they keep up this pace, LA FC could well spring a surprise and establish themselves as one of the main forces in the MLS.
And let's not forget FC Dallas, who, with a market value of 49.93 million euros, are also in contention. The Texan team has Petar Musa and Jesús Ferreira as its main assets. Musa, who came from Benfica, has already shown his worth with 13 goals in 23 games, while Ferreira, in addition to playing as a center forward, can be shifted to more creative roles in midfield. Ferreira's ability to adapt is a differentiator that could take Dallas to greater heights in the league.
Seattle Sounders, one of the most traditional clubs in the MLS, are also on the most valuable list, with 49.80 million euros. The team, which stands out for its balance, has Pedro de la Vega, Cristian Roldán and Jordan Morris as its main players. Even without big international names, the Sounders have remained competitive.
Another team worth mentioning is Orlando City SC, valued at 48.80 million euros. Although they have struggled this season, Facundo Torres is their main star. The Uruguayan, with his ability to play in several attacking positions, is a versatile player who can unbalance matches. Martín Ojeda, another of the team's standout performers, helps set up plays and provides good defensive support when needed.
Finally, there's Real Salt Lake, who, with a market value of 47.90 million euros, are right on the heels of the Western Conference leaders. Cristian Arango is the team's big name, with Diego Luna and Andrés Gómez completing an attacking trio that gives opposing defenses a hard time. If they continue at this pace, RSL have a good chance of establishing themselves as a constant force in the MLS, challenging the big boys for titles.
But at the end of the day, Inter Miami are still the team to beat. With Messi at the helm on the pitch and a squad that mixes youth and experience, the Herons have shown that money well invested can indeed buy success. The MLS may have become more competitive, but for now, the Miami club reigns supreme, leaving their rivals with the difficult task of trying to catch up with them among the league's most valuable.