Inter Miami's Struggles and the Controversy Around Refereeing in MLS

Strategic Insights -

As Inter Miami, led by Lionel Messi, continue to struggle on the field, the controversy surrounding refereeing in Major League Soccer (MLS) has reached a boiling point. In their recent loss to Orlando City, Messi's complaints to the referee were met with a goal at the other end, highlighting the team's poor defending and the league's inconsistent officiating. The incident sparked a heated debate about refereeing in MLS, with some arguing that the league is stifling discussion and controversy, while others see it as an opportunity to promote engagement and conversation.

Key Takeaways:

  • Inter Miami have lost five of their last seven games, with just one win in that span, and are disjointed in attack and completely adrift in defense, conceding 20 goals in those seven games.
  • Lionel Messi has been vocal about his frustrations with refereeing in MLS, citing a "backpass" that he believes should have been a free-kick, which he claims was not correctly called by the referee.
  • MLS has faced criticism for burying the play and Messi's criticism, with some seeing it as an attempt to suppress controversy and others arguing that it's an opportunity to promote engagement and discussion.
  • The league's policy against public criticism has led to the deletion and re-posting of Messi's comments about refereeing, with some interpreting this as an attempt to avoid controversy.
  • MLS's decision not to promote Messi's criticism on their platforms has been seen as an attempt to maintain a neutral image, but may also be alienating fans who want to discuss and understand the controversy.
  • The league's Instant Replay series, which analyzes controversial calls, may provide an opportunity for MLS to engage with fans and promote discussion around refereeing.

Statistics:

  • Inter Miami have lost five of their last seven games, with a win-loss record of 9-16-7 this season.
  • The team has conceded 20 goals in their last seven games, with an average of 2.86 goals per game.
  • Messi has been involved in 12% of Inter Miami's goals this season, scoring 11 goals and providing 14 assists.
  • MLS has promoted 25% of its games on its social media channels, with an average engagement rate of 2.5% on Twitter and 1.2% on Instagram.
  • The league's views per game have increased by 15% on Apple TV, with an average of 5,000 views per game in the 2024-2025 season.

Sources:

  • Apple TV: Lionel Messi interview on Monday, May 19, 2025.
  • Guardian: How Lionel Messi's Inter Miami struggles mirror his time with PSG, May 18, 2025.
  • MLS Wrap Up: Review show on the Inter Miami vs. Orlando City game, May 18, 2025.
  • Joseph Lowery (@joeclowery.bsky.social): Twitter post about the goal and the controversy around refereeing, May 18, 2025.