Shaun Wright-Phillips Criticizes MLS for Overreliance on Aging Stars Like Messi

Former England international Shaun Wright-Phillips has called out Major League Soccer (MLS) for its continued dependence on aging football stars to boost the league’s profile, urging league officials to adopt a more sustainable approach.

Speaking in an interview with Football Betting, as cited by Goal, the former Manchester City and Chelsea winger expressed concern that MLS is repeatedly turning to players at the twilight of their careers, such as Lionel Messi, Sergio Busquets, Luis Suarez, and Jordi Alba, to draw attention and fans.

> “When these players retire, MLS just repeats the cycle—bringing in another group of aging stars,” Wright-Phillips said. “That’s not a long-term solution.”