CONMEBOL's groundbreaking decision could bring Lionel Messi to Libertadores

South American football, with its overflowing passion and rich history, is in a constant state of evolution. The Copa Libertadores, the continent’s most prestigious club tournament, is no exception. According to reports from Brazilian media outlet Itatiaia Esporte, CONMEBOL is closely examining the new Champions League format with the aim of implementing it in the Libertadores from 2027. This potential transformation, which would include the participation of Mexican and MLS teams, and crucially, open the door for Lionel Messi to compete, promises to revolutionise the continental football landscape.

The Champions League as a Blueprint: Seeking a More Appealing and Competitive Format

The UEFA Champions League has established itself as the premier club competition worldwide, thanks to a format that combines the excitement of group stages with the intensity of knockout rounds. CONMEBOL, aware of this model’s success, is reportedly considering adapting it to the South American context. This decision reflects the desire for a format that generates greater public interest, increases competition between teams, and boosts football development in the region.

What Does a Champions League-Style Format Mean for the Libertadores?

While specific details are yet to be confirmed, a format similar to the Champions League for the Libertadores could involve the following changes:

• More Matches: An expanded format with more teams and stages would mean a longer calendar, with more high-profile matches for fans.
• More Dynamic Group Stage: Changes could be implemented in the group stage, such as eliminating some direct qualifications and creating more compelling preliminary rounds.
• Greater Presence of Teams from Different Countries: The inclusion of Mexican and MLS teams would broaden geographical and cultural representation in the tournament.
• Increased Revenue: A more attractive format could generate higher revenue from television rights, sponsorships, and ticket sales, benefiting participating clubs.

Including Mexican and MLS Teams: A Step Up for the Tournament – And Messi’s Potential Entry Point

One of the most noteworthy aspects of this potential reform is the inclusion of Mexican and MLS teams in the Copa Libertadores. This measure would represent a significant step up for the tournament, adding the competitiveness of growing leagues and the presence of internationally renowned players. And, crucially, this opening would pave the way for Lionel Messi, currently at Inter Miami, to potentially compete in the continent’s premier club competition for the first time. This possibility generates enormous global excitement, as Messi has never played in the Libertadores.

What Would Participation Mean for Messi?

• A Chance at an Unprecedented Title: For Lionel Messi, participation in the Copa Libertadores would represent an opportunity to win a title that is missing from his trophy cabinet.
• Historic Matchups: Messi would have the chance to face historic South American teams in iconic stadiums like La Bombonera or the Maracanã.
• Global Appeal for the Libertadores: Messi’s presence in the Libertadores would catapult global interest in the tournament, attracting millions of new viewers.

What Would Participation Mean for Mexican and MLS Teams in General?

• Higher Level of Competition: The incorporation of Liga MX teams, with their rich history and high level of play, and MLS teams, with their increasing investment and the arrival of international stars, would raise the bar in the Libertadores.
• More Attractive Matches for Fans: Matches between South American, Mexican, and US teams would generate great anticipation among fans, attracting new audiences and boosting the tournament’s reach.
• Cultural and Sporting Exchange: The participation of teams from different countries would foster cultural and sporting exchange, enriching the experience for players and fans.

The Impact on South American Football: A New Horizon for Clubs – and for Messi

The potential adoption of a Champions League-style format and the inclusion of Mexican and MLS teams would have a significant impact on South American football. Clubs would be forced to raise their level of play to compete with higher-calibre opponents, which would drive development in their infrastructure, the professionalisation of their squads, and investment in youth development. Moreover, the prospect of seeing Messi in action in South America would generate unprecedented excitement.

The Calendar and Logistics: Challenges to Overcome

Implementing a new format and including teams from other confederations would present significant challenges in terms of scheduling and logistics. CONMEBOL would need to coordinate with the Mexican and US leagues to avoid fixture clashes and ensure the feasibility of travel. However, these challenges do not seem insurmountable, considering the benefits this transformation could bring, especially the possibility of Messi in the Libertadores.

When Would This Change Take Place?

According to information provided by Itatiaia Esporte, these changes would be implemented no earlier than 2027. This gives CONMEBOL sufficient time to plan and coordinate all the details of this ambitious reform.