Zlatan Ibrahimovic, now a senior advisor at AC Milan, has shared his thoughts on the state of American soccer during Milan’s pre-season tour in the U.S. The former LA Galaxy striker praised Lionel Messi’s influence on Major League Soccer (MLS) and highlighted the importance of the upcoming 2026 World Cup.
The Growth of Soccer in the U.S.
Speaking at a press conference, Ibrahimovic expressed his excitement about the continued growth of soccer in the United States. “The league is growing every single day,” he said, emphasizing the rapid development he has observed since his time with LA Galaxy from 2018-2019.
Messi’s Influence in MLS
Ibrahimovic acknowledged Lionel Messi’s significant impact on MLS, noting how the Argentine superstar has elevated the league’s quality and visibility. “When I left, you got another big star which is Messi, who everybody knows. I think he holds up the quality and the attention in the league,” Ibrahimovic stated.
The Role of the 2026 World Cup
Looking ahead, Ibrahimovic pointed to the 2026 World Cup as a crucial event for the growth of soccer in the U.S. “You have the World Cup coming in 2026, I think that will have a big impact,” he remarked. Ibrahimovic also mentioned the recent Copa America held in the U.S., which further contributed to the sport’s rising popularity.
Zlatan Ibrahimovic’s comments highlight a promising future for soccer in the United States. With stars like Messi drawing global attention to MLS and the anticipation building for the 2026 World Cup, the sport is poised for significant growth. As a former player and now an advisor, Ibrahimovic’s insights underscore the potential for American soccer to reach new heights in the coming years.
The evolution of soccer in the U.S. is a testament to the influence of international stars and the impact of major tournaments, setting the stage for an exciting future in the sport.