Legendary MLS coach Bruce Arena has hit out at Inter Miami’s berth in the upcoming FIFA Club World Cup.
A spot in the prestigious global tournament was expected to be reserved for the eventual winners of MLS Cup; a competition Inter Miami were knocked out of in the opening round by underdogs Atlanta United.
However, their invitation to Club World Cup in the United States next summer was sealed when the south Florida club wrapped up the Supporters Shield, MLS’ trophy for finishing with the most points in the regular season.
FIFA’s decision to include Miami in the competition and seemingly ignore the future winners of MLS Cup, the victor of which will be decided this upcoming weekend between the Los Angeles Galaxy and the New York Red Bulls, was widely criticized.
The latest dissenting voice on the circumstances was San Jose Earthquakes boss Bruce Arena, who himself has won three MLS Cups and two Supporters Shields as a manager.
“It’s clearly marketing for sure,” he said on TalkSport.
“Is Inter Miami the sole representative of Major League Soccer? If that’s the case, I think that’s wrong.
“I don’t agree with it. But obviously, Messi is going to bring a lot of attention.”
The tournament is set to kick off in the United States on June 15, 2025. Inter Miami will be joined by the Seattle Sounders as the two representatives from MLS.
