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• How MLS is a Key Proving Ground for Socceroos World Cup Hopefuls

  Lucas Herrington, once a “baby giraffe,” is a World Cup hopeful thanks to his MLS success. The teenager now faces global stars, showcasing MLS’s growing role in Australian talent development. His move from Brisbane Roar to Colorado Rapids highlights a trend of young Aussies finding opportunities and playing time in the US league, potentially leading to future European transfers and significant financial benefits for A-League clubs.

  
  

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• Messi Remains Top MLS Earner with $25m Salary

  Lionel Messi remains the highest-paid player in Major League Soccer, earning an annual base salary of $25 million (£18.5 million). This substantial figure more than doubles that of the league’s next highest earner.

  The figures, released by the MLS Players Association, are linked to the contract extension Messi signed with Inter Miami in October. His overall guaranteed compensation for the deal stands at $28.3 million (£20.9 million).

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• Lionel Scaloni vows to do everything possible to secure Messi for 2026 World Cup

  Argentina manager Lionel Scaloni has confirmed that while Lionel Messi’s participation in the 2026 World Cup remains undecided, the coaching staff will provide the 38-year-old every opportunity to lead the world champions’ title defense.

  ​Lionel Scaloni has addressed ongoing uncertainty regarding Lionel Messi’s status for the 2026 World Cup, emphasizing that the decision rests entirely with the captain.

  Speaking ahead of friendlies against Mauritania and Zambia, Scaloni stated, “I’ll do everything possible to make sure he’s there.”

  He noted that the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner has “earned the right to decide” based on his physical and mental state.

  ​Despite turning 39 during the upcoming tournament, Messi remains central to Argentina’s plans after the cancellation of the Finalissima forced a schedule reshuffle.

  Messi has featured in six of seven Inter Miami matches this season, scoring recently against New York City.

  Scaloni reiterated the global desire to see the forward compete, adding, “I believe that, for the good of soccer, he should be there.”

• Casemiro ‘contacted about rule breaching transfer’ after Man Utd agreement

  Inter Miami and LA Galaxy have reportedly approached Casemiro regarding a summer move to Major League Soccer, though league salary regulations currently complicate any potential high-value deal.

  ​Manchester United midfielder Casemiro has been approached by LA Galaxy and Inter Miami ahead of his expected departure this summer.

  The 34-year-old and United recently agreed to waive a contract extension clause, clearing the path for his exit.

  While MLS interest is growing, both clubs currently lack a designated player slot. Signing the Brazilian to a massive contract without an available slot would violate league regulations.

  ​Alternative interest persists from the Saudi Pro League, with Al Ittihad monitoring the situation as a potential replacement for Fabinho.

  In the United States, Inter Miami sees Casemiro as a successor to the retired Sergio Busquets, though he might need a Targeted Allocation Money deal.

  Meanwhile, the Galaxy could potentially open a slot by restructuring existing contracts to facilitate the veteran midfielder’s arrival this July.

• Joan Laporta scathingly responds to Xavi Hernandez accusations

  Barcelona President Joan Laporta has scathingly dismissed Xavi Hernández’s allegations of “shadow rule” at the club, claiming the former coach is being used as a political tool by rival Víctor Font to undermine the upcoming elections.

  ​Joan Laporta has hit back at Xavi Hernández’s explosive claims, suggesting the former manager’s dismissal was purely performance-based.

  During a presidential debate, Laporta noted that the decision was vindicated by Hansi Flick’s current success, stating, “The same players who lost with Xavi, now win with Flick.”

  He accused rival candidate Víctor Font of “pulling the strings” behind Xavi to destabilize his re-election campaign with “lies and falsehoods.”

  ​The president also refuted claims he blocked Lionel Messi’s 2023 return, maintaining that the player’s camp chose Inter Miami to avoid pressure.

  Laporta defended his advisor, Alejandro Echevarría, against Xavi’s “shadow manager” accusations, asserting that the change in leadership was necessary for the club’s sporting future.

  “With Xavi I saw that we would continue to lose,” Laporta added, doubling down on the controversial 2024 sacking.