2026 MLS Season Kickoff
The 2026 MLS Season kicks off this Saturday night with an exciting match between LAFC and Inter Miami at BMO Stadium. This game marks Lionel Messi’s only scheduled visit to Los Angeles this season, making it a must-watch as he steps onto the field, embodying the star power he carries.
On the other side, Son Heung-min, the captain of the South Korean national team and LAFC’s new star player, aims to lead his team to championship glory. If MLS were looking for a symbol of its current trajectory, this matchup fits perfectly.
Last year, Messi not only won the MLS Cup with Miami but also said farewell to Barcelona. This winter, Miami has restructured, bringing in new talent like Dane St. Clair to solidify their defense and Germain Bertelame to allow Messi to play in a more strategic role. On paper, the roster looks like the strongest that MLS has seen in years.
Yet, on the field, Messi is undoubtedly a key target for every opponent.
LAFC is gearing up for its first full season with Son, who made an impact last year after leaving Tottenham. He scored 12 goals and assisted four times in just 13 games, almost propelling LAFC to the finals before a heartbreaking penalty loss to Vancouver. In contrast, Dennis Bouanga has lit up the field with 24 goals, nearly claiming the Golden Boot from Messi. While there have been transfer rumors swirling around Bouanga heading to Brazil, for now, LAFC is focused on maximizing their potential with Son leading the charge.
But just having star power won’t guarantee success.
LAFC’s coach, Marc dos Santos, has taken on a significant challenge after Steve Cherundolo departed. Dos Santos knows MLS well and understands the high expectations in Los Angeles. Last season, LAFC finished third in the Western Division with a record of 17 wins, 8 losses, and 9 draws, being knocked out in the conference semifinals. The ambition is clear: win the MLS Cup.
The roster has the talent to achieve this. New additions like Stephen Eustaquio from FC Porto, Jacob Schaffelburg, and Amin Boudri add layers of skill and creativity. And with Tyler Boyd returning from injury, the team might have the depth needed. If Aaron Long stays healthy, LAFC could be a formidable force.
However, some players have departed. Frankie Amaya’s loan is over, Andrew Moran has returned to Brighton, and Luca Bombino has transitioned to a permanent move. This reflects the broader changes happening in MLS in 2026, where the transfer dynamics are more fluid. The league has matured, becoming a vibrant ecosystem for clubs and players alike.
As the weekend approaches, all eyes are on Messi.
He’s not just a trophy holder; he might also be on American soil this summer for the World Cup, which will temporarily halt MLS play. Stars like Son and others may be summoned for national duty, creating a tricky balance for teams when they return. It raises a question: How do you maintain a cohesive team with players frequently juggling multiple commitments?
Miami is showing strong determination to protect its position, while LAFC believes that teamwork is more crucial than sheer depth. While the opening match won’t decide the season, it will reveal early advantages.
MLS is no longer fighting for recognition—it has established itself. With players like Thomas Müller and Timo Werner entering the league, MLS is becoming a hub for both up-and-coming talent and seasoned veterans looking to reinvigorate their careers.
Miami won’t back down; they’ll apply pressure, forcing LAFC to respond effectively. If Eustaquio can control the game and the defense can withstand Messi’s influence, LAFC might transform this opener into a defining moment.
Yet, any defensive weaknesses could be swiftly punished by Messi’s precision.
The beauty of Opening Day lies in its stark reality—no excuses, just pure competition. Are the LAFC ready to challenge the defending champions, or do they still have lessons to learn under a new coach?
We’ll begin to uncover the answers this Saturday night under the bright lights of Los Angeles as they face off against the champions.
