Alexi Lalas (55), a former Major League Soccer (MLS) Director General and a member of the U.S. Men's National Team (USMNT), mentioned Son Heung-min (33, Tottenham).

Global soccer media outlet Goal.com reported on the 29th (Korean time) that "Alexi Lalas spoke about the recent events in MLS on his podcast 'State of the Union.'"

Lalas, an American defender who played for the New England Revolution, Kansas City Wizards, and LA Galaxy, is regarded as a 'soccer legend' in the U.S., having participated in 96 matches for the national team. After retiring from playing, he served as president of LA Galaxy and has been working as a commentator for ESPN and Fox Sports, receiving love from U.S. soccer fans.

Lalas began by discussing Lionel Messi, who recently did not participate in the All-Star Game. He noted, "It's really funny to portray Messi as a saint fighting the structural problems of MLS. If he didn't want to participate in the All-Star Game at the time of the contract, he should have negotiated that condition. But now saying 'I won't participate' lacks credibility. Messi, it's time to grow up. If you are the star of the league, you also need to take responsibility."

Messi and Jordi Alba, who are both part of Inter Miami, did not participate in the recently held MLS All-Star Game, and the league office has imposed a suspension on them. However, they are eligible to participate in the next league match. Lalas emphasized again that "In the U.S., the All-Star Game culture has been well established for many sports for a long time. This is not just a simple event but a brand and marketing strategy for the entire league. Messi has not adhered to what is stipulated in his contract."

Nevertheless, he actively defended Jorge Mas, the owner of Inter Miami. Lalas said, "I like Jorge Mas. He is the 'ambitious disruptor' that MLS needs. He is someone who wants to do more for the team and the league but is being held back by the conservative structure of the league."

He continued, "MLS has achieved much success over the past 30 years, but now it needs to be bolder. Mas is a typical owner who wants such a league. But the system is blocking him. It's a structure designed that way deliberately."

Lalas also mentioned players who are rumored to be transferring to MLS. He specifically talked about 'Bayern Munich legend' Thomas Müller.

Lalas said, "It's interesting. He still has the ability to play despite his age. It seems likely that he will move to Vancouver Whitecaps, and perhaps he has a special affection for Canada. If that's the case, I would welcome such a choice."

He also discussed the rumor of Son Heung-min's transfer to LA FC. He stated, "Not every Korean-American fan comes to the stadium just because he is Korean. Nevertheless, Son Heung-min is already a proven superstar in terms of skill. He is a player that fans not just from the Korean-American community but all around the world can say 'I want to see him.' If LA FC can acquire him, it would be a tremendous choice."

Lalas added, "Not just for marketing purposes, Son Heung-min can elevate the team's overall strength on his own. LA FC will definitely need him."

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