New Format and Star Power

Unlike previous years, the 2025 Leagues Cup will not pause the regular seasons of MLS or Liga MX, meaning clubs will need to balance league duties with this international competition. On the Mexican side, all 18 Liga MX teams will compete. On the MLS side, only 18 clubs were selected, based on their 2024 standings. The only exception is debutant San Diego, who replaces the Vancouver Whitecaps.

Each team will play three group-stage matches, and every one of the 54 opening games will pit an MLS club against a Liga MX opponent. This balance will also continue into the quarterfinals, where four teams from each league will remain. The tournament offers an added incentive: the top three finishers will qualify for the next Concacaf Champions Cup.

Messi Returns to the Spotlight in the U.S.

On July 21, 2023, Lionel Messi made his highly anticipated Leagues Cup debut with Inter Miami, entering the match in the 54th minute and scoring a stunning free-kick in stoppage time to beat Cruz Azul. That tournament run ended with Inter Miami lifting their first-ever trophy.

In 2024, Messi missed the tournament due to an injury in the Copa América final, but he’s back this year and ready to compete. Although the MLS recently suspended him and Jordi Alba for skipping the All-Star Game, both are expected to lead Inter Miami’s charge once again.

Still, Inter Miami isn’t the only favorite. From the MLS, teams like Cincinnati, Columbus Crew, Los Angeles FC, and San Diego are serious contenders. Representing Liga MX, heavyweights like América, Toluca, and Monterrey will aim to restore Mexican dominance.