Tata Martino stepped forward to defend the Leagues Cup amid ongoing protests from several Liga MX clubs, including high-profile teams like Rayados de Monterrey. The discussion unfolded as the former coach of the Mexican national team and current manager of Inter Miami CF in MLS addressed the tournament at hand, emphasizing the role it plays in bridging North American soccer dynamics and the complexities that come with cross-border competitions.
Martino, who once steered the Mexican national side, now leads Inter Miami in MLS and spoke at a press conference about the Leagues Cup 2023, a competition that has drawn both attention and resistance from Liga MX clubs. His defense centered on the autonomy of MLS to organize its own events, while acknowledging that participation is voluntary for clubs—an arrangement that has sparked debate among Mexican teams who question the event’s structure and its benefits.
He stated that the MLS did not announce a mandatory tournament; rather, the league is pursuing the format it prefers, inviting willing teams to participate and allowing those who choose not to join to opt out. This framing underscores a broader philosophy within MLS about experimentation and strategic alliances in a landscape where cross-border tournaments are still gaining acceptance among traditional stakeholders.
Martino recalled that Concacaf had previously tried a similar approach by coordinating a tournament that brought MLS and Liga MX together. The process involved discussions about the tournament’s format, the potential revenue, and the responsibilities of the organizing bodies. He noted that the decision-making involved all parties, yet the emphasis on corporate partnerships and sponsorships often dominated conversations, a reality that has fueled some of the discontent expressed by supporters and clubs alike.
According to the Rosario-born coach, Liga MX’s participation depended on the terms set by the organizing company, which had to strike a balance between financial viability and competitive fairness. He suggested that any formal complaint should be directed to the FMF president rather than the tournament organizers since the ultimate acceptance of terms rests with the federation’s leadership. This remark pointed to the political dynamics at play within Mexican soccer governance and the way strategic decisions are communicated to clubs and fans.
While the comments sparked varied reactions, the broader conversation centers on the evolving relationship between MLS and Liga MX, the growing market for cross-border fixtures, and how clubs navigate their commitments in a sporting landscape that increasingly values international exposure. The exchange also highlighted the enduring tension between organizational prerogatives and the desires of fans who seek consistency, stability, and clear benefits from such introductions to the calendar. The discussion remains a telling example of how elite clubs weigh the costs and potential rewards of a bi-national competition in a crowded North American sports ecosystem. [Goal]