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Inter Miami’s Lionel Messi has found the net seven times at this World Cup, steering Argentina into the Round of 16.

According to former defender Greg Garza, Messi’s game-changing performances for Argentina can only serve to strengthen Major League Soccer (MLS).

Messi has been Argentina’s standout performer as they aim to retain the title they lifted four years ago. Garza believes that young fans watching the football icon and discovering he plays his club football in the United States for Inter Miami will naturally contribute to the league’s expansion.

Messi is one of 45 active MLS players participating in this World Cup, a figure that is noteworthy as the league marks its 30th anniversary.

The Argentine captain has been instrumental in his national team’s journey to the last 16, scoring seven goals so far. He also now holds the record as the World Cup’s all-time top scorer with 20 goals.

Speaking exclusively to FourFourTwo, Garza said, “Lionel Messi representing MLS while playing for Argentina in the World Cup is just incredible.”

He added, “If you’re a young boy, you could never have imagined watching YouTube for the first time and thinking that this player would one day be in this league, representing this crest and this badge at a World Cup.”

Garza continued, “Even down to the 45th player, it’s still a remarkable opportunity for these athletes to represent their clubs, countries, and communities. I think the most exciting part for the fans is seeing them achieve that.”

He further remarked, “To witness players you follow week after week now performing on the grandest stage for their nations—it’s an amazing realization for supporters.”

MLS, which was founded in 1996—two years after the USA hosted the 1994 World Cup—stands to gain even more exposure as another World Cup approaches in North America. But what benefits could this tournament bring to the league?

Garza, who previously played for Atlanta United and FC Cincinnati, explained, “It’s all about continuing the growth of this sport in this country. The biggest goal for all of us is to attract more eyes to what football represents here. The World Cup will only boost that excitement and lead to even greater interest in MLS once the tournament concludes.”

He added, “We’ve already reached an impressive point. If you look at the statistics, MLS ranks among the most-watched leagues globally, which is fantastic.”

“MLS is also one of the most diverse leagues in the world, with players from more than 80 countries represented.”

“The opportunities this league has created for people around the world have driven tremendous growth over the past three decades. It’s all about maintaining that momentum.”

“When you look at the calibre of players in MLS, the effective marketing efforts, and the long-term vision promised by Commissioner Don Garber—especially his commitment to bringing another World Cup to the United States—everything has aligned perfectly.”

“Many might have once said, ‘No, that’s impossible,’ but now we can confidently say, ‘We told you so.’”