Lionel Messi Father Accused of “Running” Inter Miami as Ex-MLS Star Calls Club a “Disaster”

Lionel Messi’s impact on Major League Soccer has been nothing short of transformational. Since swapping Paris for South Beach in 2023, the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner has dragged Inter Miami into the spotlight, delivering trophies, selling out stadiums across the league, and making MLS appointment viewing for global audiences.

But not everyone is convinced that the Messi era in Miami is a positive for everyone involved. Former Leeds United and MLS midfielder Mateusz Klich has delivered a scathing assessment of the club, claiming that Inter Miami has become a “disaster” behind the scenes and that Lionel Messi’s father, Jorge Messi, “basically runs the club.”

Messi’s Arrival Changed Everything at Inter Miami

When David Beckham helped to lure Messi to MLS, the move was hailed as a game-changer — the most significant signing since Beckham himself arrived at LA Galaxy in 2007. Messi’s signing immediately elevated Miami’s profile, with ticket sales skyrocketing, merchandise flying off shelves, and Apple TV’s MLS Season Pass subscriptions surging.

On the pitch, Messi has been everything Inter Miami hoped for and more. He has delivered a Leagues Cup title, a Supporters’ Shield, and MVP honours, quickly turning a once-struggling expansion side into a force to be reckoned with.

For fans, the Messi effect has been magical. Chase Stadium is regularly sold out, and every away match is treated like a spectacle, with supporters packing rival stadiums just to catch a glimpse of the Argentine legend.

“A Disaster” Behind the Scenes – Klich’s Brutal Assessment

Despite this fairy-tale picture on the surface, Klich — who played for D.C. United and Atlanta United before returning to Poland with Cracovia — has painted a much darker picture of life inside the Miami camp.

Speaking to Foot Truck, the 34-year-old midfielder did not hold back:

“I don’t recommend Miami as long as Messi is there. It’s a disaster; people are leaving, coaches and physiotherapists are leaving. Organisationally, it’s bad. Messi’s dad basically runs the club. Everyone speaks Spanish, and nothing can be done without their consent. The club itself is also 45-50 minutes from Miami.”

Klich’s comments suggest that Messi’s presence — and more specifically the power wielded by his inner circle — has created an environment that some players and staff find difficult to work in.

The claim that Jorge Messi has significant influence over club decisions will not surprise many observers. From squad building to marketing strategy, the Messi brand is central to Inter Miami’s identity, and ensuring the star forward is happy has been a priority for ownership from day one.

Does Messi’s Family Call the Shots in Miami?

Lionel Messi Inter Miami 2025

The notion that Messi’s camp holds veto power over key decisions is a contentious one. Some see it as a natural consequence of signing the most famous footballer on the planet. After all, Messi’s arrival has been worth tens of millions to MLS and has boosted the league’s profile in ways few thought possible.

Others, however, worry that this level of influence risks undermining the sporting project. If coaches and staff are leaving because they feel overruled or sidelined, it could create instability in the long term.

Inter Miami have already been through several coaching changes in recent years, and building a sustainable winning culture will require balance — making the most of Messi’s presence while ensuring the club doesn’t become overly reliant on one man.

Klich’s MLS Recommendations

Interestingly, Klich didn’t just criticise Miami — he also offered alternative recommendations for players considering a move to MLS.

“I would recommend New York,” he said. “Red Bull has a better stadium now, but City is also building a cracking stadium. There are clubs like Columbus Crew and Cincinnati, which have great stadiums and a great base, but the place to live is very boring. I would recommend Nashville, if you have an option to go to Nashville SC. It’s a beautiful place. Portland and Seattle have atmosphere, but it’s the end of the world.”

His comments highlight that MLS is no longer a league dominated by just a few big-name franchises. Many clubs now offer excellent infrastructure, competitive wages, and passionate fanbases.

Messi Set to Stay – New Contract Looming

For all the controversy, Messi is not going anywhere. Reports suggest the World Cup winner is on the verge of signing a new deal that will keep him in Miami beyond his 40th birthday, following in the footsteps of his eternal rival Cristiano Ronaldo, who has extended his career well into his forties in Saudi Arabia.

For Inter Miami’s owners and for MLS, Messi’s continued presence is a dream scenario — one that guarantees eyeballs, sponsorships, and global relevance for several more seasons.

The Bigger Picture

Mateusz Klich’s words are a reminder that even in the glamorous world of Messi mania, there are growing pains and politics behind the scenes. Inter Miami have quickly gone from a promising expansion side to one of the most scrutinised clubs in North America.

For Beckham, Jorge Mas, and the Inter Miami hierarchy, the challenge will be to keep the project on track: balancing Messi’s influence with the need to run a stable, professional club environment that works for players, coaches, and staff alike.