Leagues Cup is unfair to Liga MX teams, Carlos Vela claims

The tournament takes place in the U.S., forcing the Mexican clubs to play every match away from home.

Los Angeles FC (LAFC) star Carlos Vela has criticised the format of the Leagues Cup, stating that Liga MX clubs are at a disadvantage.

The Leagues Cup, in its inaugural edition, has garnered attention with Inter Miami’s new star Lionel Messi shining in the tournament.

LAFC secured a direct spot in the round of 32 after their MLS Cup victory in 2022. However, Vela is not pleased with the fact that all the matches are being held in the United States, denying Liga MX clubs the opportunity to play home games.

“For me the fairest thing is to have matches in Mexico as well. Liga MX clubs are at a disadvantage because they play away from home and always play away games,” he told Fox Sports.

Vela’s sentiments are not isolated, as other figures in Mexican soccer, such as Tigres defender Diego Reyes and Santos Laguna coach Pablo Repetto, have also voiced similar concerns. As things stand, however, all of the tournament’s round-of-32 matches will be played in the U.S.

The knockout stage starts on Thursday, with L.A. FC taking on FC Juarez. In another standout game, Inter Miami will meet Orlando City at the DRV PNK Stadium.