Leagues Cup 2024 is nearly right here, and some main storylines are growing forward of the event’s second version.
For the second consecutive yr, all MLS and Liga MX golf equipment will take a break from home motion and compete within the Leagues Cup. The event options an action-packed group stage earlier than the knockout rounds start in August, all main as much as the ultimate on Saturday, Aug. 25.
In 2023, Lionel Messi and Inter Miami hoisted their first ever trophy after defeating Nashville SC within the Leagues Cup ultimate. Now, the Herons should defend their title this summer season, and so they might need to take action with out their greatest participant.
This is a breakdown of the three greatest storylines forward of Leagues Cup 2024.
3. Chivas’ Cade Cowell and Chicharito Hernandez to face former MLS golf equipment
One of many greatest Leagues Cup 2024 group stage storylines is the return of Chivas’ Cade Cowell and Javier “Chicharito” Hernandez to San Jose Earthquakes and LA Galaxy respectively.
Cowell grew to become the fourth-youngest signing in MLS historical past at 15 years outdated when he joined the Earthquakes, however opted to depart his hometown membership this winter to play for one of many greatest Liga MX groups. Chicharito, in the meantime, spent 4 seasons with LA Galaxy, scoring 39 objectives however failing to assist the MLS giants win a sixth MLS Cup.
Now, each gamers will get an opportunity to shine in opposition to their former golf equipment at Leagues Cup. Chivas takes on the San Jose Earthquakes on July 27 and LA Galaxy on Aug. 4.
2. Olivier Giroud’s arrival at LAFC
LAFC already sit atop of the Western Convention, and now, they’re welcoming Olivier Giroud to their squad proper earlier than the beginning of Leagues Cup. The previous AC Milan striker is the all-time main goalscorer for France, and can start his MLS start now that Euro 2024 has concluded.
The Black and Gold couldn’t get previous Liga MX’s Monterrey in final yr’s Leagues Cup, crashing out of the event within the quarter-finals after a 3-2 defeat. With the addition of Giroud, although, LAFC have all of the items they should raise their first ever Leagues Cup.
1. Lionel Messi’s damage
Lionel Messi might need lifted Argentina’s record-breaking sixteenth Copa America title this summer season, however he was compelled off the pitch within the 66th minute with an ankle damage. The eight-time Ballon d’Or winner’s health is now a rising concern forward of Leagues Cup 2024, the place Inter Miami look to defend their title.
Though the membership doesn’t imagine Messi’s knock is a long-term damage, they nonetheless confirmed their famous person will miss at the very least the following two matches for Inter Miami earlier than the MLS All-Star Sport. The Herons play their first Leagues Cup 2024 match on July 27, and as of now, Messi’s standing for the event is unsure.
