‘No reason why Messi shouldn’t move to MLS,’ says Higuain

Robin Bairner

• Updated: 19 May 2021 13:09 BST
• 2 min read

Lionel Messi could move to MLS when his contract expires in June, according to former Argentina team-mate Gonzalo Higuain.

With his deal at Barcelona up in June, the future of Messi is a source of much speculation. Paris Saint-Germain and Manchester City are both heavily linked with the six-time Ballon d’Or winner, but equally new Barca president Joan Laporta has been bullish about the club’s prospects of keeping him.

READ MORE: Is €555m Messi worth financial turmoil? Why a divorce is best for Barcelona & Leo

Messi, meanwhile, has repeatedly indicated his desire to make his decision at the end of the season.

David Beckham, a co-owner of the Inter Miami franchise at which Higuain plays, has previously spoken of his desire to hire either Messi or Ronaldo.

Higuain, who has been playing in MLS since September, sees no reason why Messi should not be attracted to the US.

“Andrea Pirlo came here to MLS when he was a world champion, so did Thierry Henry, David Villa and Blaise Matuidi,” Higuain told ESPN.

“I see no reason why Lionel Messi couldn’t come here. If it would make him happy, we would welcome him with open arms.

“At some point, he will decide where he wants to play and what is in his own best interests on a personal and sporting level, but in my opinion, he has the calibre to continue competing for the Champions League.”

How well is Lionel Messi playing?

Despite Barcelona’s struggles this season, Messi continues to perform at an exceptional level.

In La Liga, he has scored 21 goals and laid on a further nine in just 25 appearances, while in all competitions he posts 27 goals and 12 assists.

Messi’s form since the turn of the year has been particularly exceptional for Barcelona, as he has scored 17 goals in his last 12 games in La Liga and the Champions League combined.