The arrival of Lionel Messi in MLS has caused a frenzy among soccer fans, but will it also impact ticket sales for the upcoming match between the Philadelphia Union and Inter Miami? Union head coach Jim Curtin is urging local fans not to sell their tickets, fearing that the resale market could result in a pro-Miami crowd at Subaru Park.

Since Messi's arrival, Inter Miami has been on a winning streak, with a perfect 5-0 record. The team is set to face the Philadelphia Union in the Leagues Cup semifinals on Tuesday. The match is highly anticipated and expected to draw a packed crowd.

Resale ticket prices for the match are currently starting at around $300 on major platforms. Curtin is determined to maintain a strong home-field advantage for the Union and has pleaded with fans not to sell their tickets, regardless of the amount of money offered.

"We know that we're going to have a packed Subaru Park. It's going to be the No. 1 ticket in the city, for sure," said Curtin. "Please don't sell your tickets, no matter how much money they're offering for them."

Messi's impact on MLS has been immense, leading to increases in League Pass subscriptions, merchandise sales, and social media audiences. Apple has even announced a docuseries on Apple TV+ that will provide unprecedented access to Messi and his new Inter Miami family.

As the match approaches, it remains to be seen if fans will heed Curtin's plea and keep their tickets, or if the allure of seeing Messi in action will lead to a surge in resale ticket prices and potentially a pro-Miami crowd at the stadium.