The Soccer Morning Show with Jamie Rudd

Listen in as we discuss the impressive ripple effect Lionel Messi's move to Inter Miami has had on US soccer, and MLS in particular. In what has been dubbed the 'Messi Effect', the Argentine's first match with Inter Miami triggered a massive surge in MLS season pass sign-ups, with over 110,000 new US subscribers on July 21st.

The Messi phenomenon is not only reshaping soccer viewership but is also attracting top European stars drawn by Messi's success and a lifestyle that affords privacy and anonymity. Hear us explore the significance of these shifts and what they mean for the future of US soccer.


We also touch on Messi's personal jersey-swapping ritual and reveal this constant maneuvering and deal-making process. We share stories of the first players to receive a Leo Messi shirt from his time at Inter Miami and those not so fortunate.

In a fun detour, we share British heavyweight boxer Anthony Joshua's wish to see Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo face off in a boxing match.

Finally, we highlight Messi's wife, Antonella Aracuzzo's, red carpet appearance at a Tiffany Company event in Mexico, a moment that stole the limelight and garnered attention from her husband and Georgina Rodriguez, partner of Cristiano Ronaldo. Tune in for an episode packed with all things Messi!

AI gave us an assist in the creation of today's podcast, but the hat trick is our own.

Of course it was Lionel Messi who scored the winning goal over Messi.

We look at f Lionel Messi's recent performance during Argentina's World Cup qualifier against Ecuador.

We also share insights from Argentina's coach, Lionel Scoloni, who reveals that Messi asked to be substituted due to exhaustion and possible injury concerns. We further highlight Messi's humbling reflections on the tough match, his appreciation for his teammates, and his determined spirit to continue pushing boundaries.

As we shift gears, we contemplate the future of the Argentina squad in a post-Messi era and what it could mean for international football.

We also touch on the playful antics of Irish supporters during the France-Ireland match in the 2024 Euros qualification and the prospects of Messi participating in an exhibition match in Israel.

Lastly, don't miss our discussion on the recent Men's Ballon D'or trophy nominations and Cristiano Ronaldo's thoughts on his famed rivalry with Messi.

AI gave us an assist in the creation of today's podcast, but the hat trick is our own.

Messi heads off to Argentina for International duty.

Owen Wilson says the Messi Effect reminds him of when Pele came to the NASL. Let's hope this works out better.

Is MLS more popualr than the Premier League in the US now?

AI gave us an assist in the creation of today's podcast, but the hat trick is our own.

It was a star studded night in Los Angeles as LAFC hosted Messi.

Meanwhile, Messi's bodyguard lept into action as an interloper ran on the field.

AI gave us an assist in the creation of today's podcast, but the hat trick is our own.

Messi Magic runs out PLUS Celebs can’t get into LAFC game. Is Messi in trouble for not talking to the press and Adidas Messi "Leyenda" series will get its second edition.

AI gave us an assist in the creation of today's podcast, but the hat trick is our own.

Will Messi build a $50 million mansion? Will Miami build a new stadium for Messi? His oldest son has some big shoes to fill and is the new instagram star Messi's bodyguard Yassine Chueko?

AI gave us an assist in the creation of today's podcast, but the hat trick is our own.

The folks in Red Bull Arena had to wait until the 89th minute but they got their show!

Mrs. Messi mistook a teammate for Lionel.

Messi appears in a music video.

AI gave us an assist in the creation of today's podcast, but the hat trick is our own.

Will Messi play tonight against the Red Bulls?

New York fans are excited to see him in person plus a concert. DMC will be performing as part of a celebration of the 50th Anniversary of Hip-Hop. There will also be performances from Hip-Hop legends Vin Rock and DJ Kay Gee of Naughty by Nature as well as DJ Skribble and DJ Scratch.

AI gave us an assist in the creation of today's podcast, but the hat trick is our own.

Looks like we won't ever be able to count Miami out...not if Messi is on the pitch. Miami advances in the U.S. Open Cup

Meanwhile, Messi tells reporters he is very happy here.

Miami heads to New York (aka Harrison New Jersey, but that doesn't sound as cool) for a pricey event.

AI gave us an assist in the creation of today's podcast, but the hat trick is our own.

The Stars were out in Nashville....Messi scored (of course)...and Miami won the Leagues Cup. It is Messi's 44th trophy.

AI gave us an assist in the creation of today's podcast, but the hat trick is our own.