Messi and Liga MX Could Be Close to Competing in the Copa Libertadores

The possibility of seeing Lionel Messi and clubs from Liga MX competing in the Copa Libertadores is gaining momentum. Jorge Mas, one of the owners of Inter Miami, publicly shared his vision for South America’s most prestigious club competition and confirmed that discussions are already underway with CONMEBOL.

Mas explained that the idea goes beyond a single club or league. The proposal aims to integrate teams from Major League Soccer and Liga MX into a broader competitive structure that would allow North American clubs to face South American teams on equal footing. He also pointed to a key historical precedent, reminding that Mexican clubs previously competed in the Copa Libertadores for several years.

“I’ve had conversations with CONMEBOL and with Alejandro Domínguez to see if participation in the Copa Libertadores is possible. There is precedent, because Mexican clubs have played in the Libertadores before,” Mas said when addressing the media.

As the reigning MLS Cup champions, Inter Miami would play a central role in this initiative. The potential participation of Messi’s team in the Copa Libertadores would open an entirely new chapter for football in the region and allow North American clubs to compete officially in one of the most iconic tournaments in world football.

Mas’ proposal also includes the idea that champions from leagues such as MLS and Liga MX could earn direct qualification spots for the Copa Libertadores. This approach would significantly raise the competitive level and provide an alternative pathway for clubs that currently compete only in CONCACAF tournaments.

While several steps remain before the concept could become reality, the initiative has already sparked strong interest among fans and football analysts. If approved, it would represent a historic shift in the relationship between confederations and dramatically expand competitive opportunities for clubs from the United States, Mexico, and beyond.