Miami, FL – May 7, 2025 — Inter Miami co-owner David Beckham has publicly expressed his frustration over what he called a “lack of respect” following a pointed comment made by a rival MLS executive, reigniting tensions in the league’s fiercely competitive landscape.
Beckham, the global football icon who has become one of the most influential figures in American soccer, responded sternly after a veiled jab from a front office member of a rival club appeared to belittle Inter Miami’s recruitment strategy and recent high-profile signings — including global superstars like Lionel Messi, Luis Suárez, and Jordi Alba.
“We deserve more respect,” Beckham says
Speaking to reporters following Inter Miami’s 3-1 victory over LA Galaxy on Saturday night, Beckham addressed the controversy head-on.
“Bringing the best players in the world to MLS is not something to mock — it’s something to celebrate,” Beckham said. “We’ve worked hard to elevate this league. To hear people question our approach with a tone of disrespect, especially from inside MLS, is disappointing.”
Though Beckham didn’t name the individual or the club in question, speculation has centered on recent comments from an anonymous executive quoted in an article suggesting that Miami is “playing fantasy football while the rest of us build real teams.”
The jab drew criticism not just from Beckham, but also from within the broader MLS community, where many have credited Inter Miami with raising the league’s profile on the international stage.
Backlash and support
MLS Commissioner Don Garber appeared to back Beckham in a brief statement Monday, calling Inter Miami “a vital part of the league’s global evolution” and emphasizing that “competition and innovation should be celebrated, not criticized.”
Several players and managers also weighed in, with some suggesting that the jibe may have stemmed from envy over Miami’s meteoric rise and growing international fanbase.
Inter Miami’s success and scrutiny
Since Messi’s arrival last year, Inter Miami has transformed both on and off the pitch. Ticket sales have surged, broadcast ratings have climbed, and the club now enjoys global attention that most MLS teams can only dream of.
But with that spotlight has come scrutiny — from rivals who question the sustainability of Miami’s star-powered model and suggest that the club’s big-name roster comes at the expense of long-term team building.
Beckham, however, dismissed those criticisms.
“We’re building a legacy here — not just for Miami, but for MLS as a whole,” he said. “That deserves admiration, not mockery. We’re proud of our vision, and we’re not going to apologize for ambition.”
Looking ahead
Inter Miami sits atop the Eastern Conference standings and remains a favorite to win the MLS Cup. As the league continues to grapple with its identity — balancing growth, parity, and ambition — Beckham’s message was clear: big dreams belong in American soccer.
“We’ve come a long way,” he said. “But respect, at the very least, should be mutual.”
