Which makes sense. Inter Miami is the exception to many MLS rules. It has Lionel Messi, who earns more money than any other MLS club’s entire roster. He has won more career trophies than MLS has played seasons. He has elevated Inter, on and off the field, to this stage, and to levels the league has never known.

Major League Soccer season, Inter Miami captain Lionel Messi played in a mere 55% of available games. Still, despite his limited participation in a pink jersey, Messi led the club to the Supporters' Shield and an MLS points record,