Apple’s Major League Soccer Commitment
Since signing a long-term rights deal with Major League Soccer (MLS), Apple has made significant strides to enhance the league’s presence on its streaming service. The tech giant has rolled out a comprehensive array of offerings that cater to both new and die-hard fans, ranging from live streaming of every single match throughout the season to a plethora of off-the-pitch content. One of the most notable additions is the new documentary series "Onside: Major League Soccer," which delves into the 2024 season, providing a behind-the-scenes look at the league’s dynamic ecosystem. Apple hopes that this series will attract casual supporters and turn them into devoted weekly viewers by showcasing the league’s biggest rivalries, most intriguing stars, and the strategic maneuvers that define this fast-growing soccer empire. The official release from Apple emphasizes the series’ unique access to players, coaches, and clubs, promising to highlight the electrifying moments and captivating stories that make the 2024 season truly memorable.
Early Impressions of "Onside: Major League Soccer"
The Sporting News had the opportunity to preview "Onside: Major League Soccer" before its release, which hit all eight episodes on Friday, February 21. Apple’s production value is nothing short of exceptional, with high-intensity pacing, precise editing, and a compelling mix of storytelling and on-field action. The series strikes a balance by not getting overly bogged down in the chronological details of the 2024 regular season. Instead, it focuses on the most engaging aspects, starting with the opening round matchup between Inter Miami and the LA Galaxy. The documentary also touches upon other key storylines such as the league’s fiercest rivalries, the transfer window, Deadline Day, and other major talking points. This approach keeps the show dynamic and prevents it from becoming tedious, allowing viewers to stay engaged without feeling overwhelmed by excessive detail.
The Opening Episode and Riqui Puig
The opening episode of "Onside" sets a high bar with a spotlight on Riqui Puig, the talented midfielder who made the emotional transition from Barcelona to MLS. Puig’s journey is presented as an emotional roller coaster, capturing his initial apprehensions and the exhilarating experience of his first match with the LA Galaxy against Inter Miami. The episode provides a personal and relatable narrative, making Puig a sympathetic and captivating character. This focus on individual personalities is a strong point of the documentary, as it not only humanizes the players but also gives viewers a deeper understanding of the league’s evolving landscape. Other episodes also offer insightful glimpses into some of the most fascinating figures in MLS, including players, executives, and club owners, adding layers to the league’s story.
The Elephant in the Room: Lionel Messi’s Absence
However, the series is marred by a significant flaw that threatens to overshadow its many strengths: the absence of Lionel Messi. The Argentine superstar, who has become the face of MLS since his arrival 18 months ago, is nowhere to be found in the documentary. While there are fleeting shots of him on the pitch when Inter Miami is mentioned, Messi does not speak or even appear in any candid moments. This glaring omission is hard to overlook, especially given the league’s heavy promotion of Messi and his impact on global interest in MLS. The lack of Messi’s personal insights or exclusive content feels like a missed opportunity, considering the unprecedented access Apple promised. It raises questions about whether Messi himself requested to be excluded, or if this was a decision made by the production team. Regardless of the reason, the absence of the game’s all-time greatest player leaves a noticeable void in the series.
Global Aspirations and Granular Storylines
Another aspect that "Onside" could have delved into more deeply is the league’s broader global aspirations. In the opening episode, Inter Miami owner Jorge Mas makes a bold claim, stating, "I think that I share with my fellow owners, that I want this league to be better. That we want this to be one of the top two or three leagues in the world, and I think we are immensely poised to do great things." Despite this ambitious statement, the documentary does not provide substantial follow-up or explore the league’s efforts to achieve this goal. Instead, it often focuses on granular storylines, such as individual transfer sagas and club rivalries. While these narratives are engaging, they do not fully capture the league’s global ambitions. For new and experienced MLS fans alike, a deeper exploration of the league’s international growth and its strategies to become a world-class soccer destination would have been a valuable addition.
Engaging Storytelling and Strong Pacing
Despite the elephant in the room and the lack of broader context, "Onside: Major League Soccer" remains a highly enjoyable and well-produced series. The storytelling is strong, and the pacing is just right, ensuring that the show stays engaging throughout its eight episodes. The selective use of in-depth segments, such as the episode dedicated to the transfer window, adds depth without overwhelming the viewer. The series effectively captures the excitement and passion of MLS, making it a must-watch for fans who are invested in the league’s current and future trajectory. The high production values and the quality of the content are evident, lending credibility to Apple’s ambitious project. Even with the notable absence of Messi, the documentary does a commendable job of painting a detailed and vibrant picture of Major League Soccer.
Final Thoughts and Audience Reception
In conclusion, "Onside: Major League Soccer" is a well-executed documentary series that offers a compelling and visually stunning inside look at the league. It is an enjoyable and engaging experience for both new and seasoned MLS fans, thanks to its strong narrative storylines and excellent pacing. However, the absence of Lionel Messi, a player who has been central to MLS’s recent success and global appeal, is a significant shortcoming. For viewers who are eager for Messi’s insights and personal touch, this absence will be a source of disappointment. On the other hand, for those who may be experiencing Messi fatigue due to his omnipresent presence in Apple’s coverage and promotions, "Onside" provides a refreshing alternative. Ultimately, the series is a valuable contribution to MLS content, even if it falls short of the complete story some fans might have hoped for.
