MLS weekend: Teenagers are taking over, and Messi goes full Florida Man

Guardian Sport

by Jeff Rueter

March 2, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

The MLS is undergoing a transformation, moving away from its long-standing reputation as a "retirement league" where aging European stars come to finish their careers. This shift is evident with the arrival of high-profile players like Lionel Messi, Thomas Müller, and James Rodríguez, who are still at the peak of their careers. These players, along with others like Son Heung-min, Hugo Lloris, and Marco Reus, bring a new level of skill and excitement to the league, signaling a move toward attracting younger, more dynamic talent. Historically, MLS has been associated with late-career stops for legends such as Robbie Keane, Kaká, David Villa, Andrea Pirlo, Didier Drogba, Wayne Rooney, and Zlatan Ibrahimović. However, the league is now seeing a influx of players who are still active on the international stage. For instance, Messi’s impressive and entertaining performance for Inter Miami against Orlando City highlights this change in momentum. His antics, including a playful celebration resembling a "Florida Man" meme, have added to his appeal and generated buzz around the league. The arrival of these top-tier players is significant because it elevates the overall quality of MLS and makes it more competitive on a global stage. This shift not only attracts more fans but also positions the league as a serious contender in the football world. For sports enthusiasts, this evolution means that MLS is no longer just a retirement destination but a platform where some of the best players continue to showcase their skills, making each game more thrilling and值得 watching.

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Originally published on Guardian Sport on 3/2/2026