The possibility of seeing Mohamed Salah and Lionel Messi on the same team is exciting for anyone, not just Inter Miami fans. However, there are significant obstacles within MLS itself that would prevent this rumor from coming to fruition.
Thinking of Mohamed Salah and Lionel Messi is to think of one of the most attractive attacking duos in MLS history and the Egyptian winger has already confirmed his departure from Liverpool after almost a decade, but the Designated Player rule is the main obstacle.
What is the "Designated Player"?
The main impediment is not economic, but structural. MLS operates under a salary control system that limits the number of stars each team can register.
The "Designated Player" (DP) rule allows clubs to pay high salaries without fully affecting the salary cap. However, each team can only have three DP spots.
Inter Miami already has its places occupied
Currently, Inter Miami has its three slots filled by:
- Lionel Messi
- Rodrigo De Paul
- German Berterame
This means that, under the current rules, there is no room to incorporate Salah as a Designated Player.
In addition, the contractual situation does not help either: Messi is tied until 2028, while De Paul and Berterame also have long-term agreements. There are no immediate exits to free up a place.
Are there any alternatives?
In the past, some players have arrived under temporary arrangements or contractual adjustments. However, the case of Salah is different. His signing would involve a contract with a high economic and media impact, something that necessarily requires a Designated Player spot.
The only real solution would be for MLS to change its rules and allow a fourth DP or to relax the salary system, something that is not currently being considered.
Where will Mohamed Salah play next season?
Although it is unlikely to be in MLS, Salah would be welcomed by many teams in the league. However, from Arab soccer they would be ready to make much more attractive proposals, economically speaking. It is also not entirely out of the question that Salah will continue his career in Europe. Although his sporting decline has been evident this season with Liverpool, at 33 years of age, he could still sign for a couple of seasons to extend his successful career in elite soccer
