The Messi Effect is now so strong that opposing coaches are looking to directly influence ticket sales to preserve home-field advantage in the wake of Lionel Messi’s transformational arrival to MLS.
A perfect 5-0 since the Argentinian star joined last month, Inter Miami plays the Philadelphia Union in the Leagues Cup semifinals on Tuesday. Messi’s immense appeal has compelled Union head coach Jim Curtin to plead with local fans not to resort to the resale market — and possibly create a pro-Inter Miami crowd at Subaru Park.
“Please don’t sell your tickets, no matter how much money they’re offering for them — please,” Curtin said.
Resale ticket prices for the match are beginning at about $300 each on major platforms.
“We know that we’re going to have a packed Subaru Park. It’s going to be the No. 1 ticket in the city, for sure. I’m sure some celebrities will be out here in Philly, so I’m excited for it,” Curtin added.
Messi has sparked substantial increases in MLS League Pass subscriptions, merchandise sales, and social media audiences.
Another Messi Docuseries
Apple has solidified plans for a forthcoming six-part docuseries on Apple TV+ covering Messi’s time in MLS, promising “unprecedented access to Messi and his new Inter Miami family.”
The project is separate from the company’s previously announced four-part documentary, which focuses more on Messi’s overall career and his triumphant run with Argentina for the 2022 FIFA World Cup.
Apple will work with New York-based production company Smuggler Entertainment on both efforts.
![[US, Mexico & Canada customers only] Dec 5, 2025; Washington, District of Columbia, USA; United States of America President Donald Trump, FIFA President Gianni Infantino and Canada Prime Minister Mark Carney watch from the stands during the FIFA World Cup 2026 Final Draw at John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts.](https://frontofficesports.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/USATSI_27745262_168416386_lowres-scaled.jpg?quality=100&w=1024)
