Lionel Messi’s legendary trophy collection just got even bigger. The eight-time Ballon d’Or winner has been named the 2024 Landon Donovan MLS MVP, capping off a remarkable first full season with Inter Miami in Major League Soccer. In his debut MLS season, Messi made an immediate impact, despite missing 15 games due to injuries and international duty.
The Argentine superstar led the league in goal contributions, scoring 20 goals and providing 16 assists in just 19 games.
His impressive performance made him only the third player in MLS history to achieve at least 20 goals and 15 assists in a single season, joining Carlos Vela (2019) and Sebastian Giovinco (2015) in this elite group. Messi’s win also marks a milestone for Inter Miami, as he becomes the first player from the club to win the prestigious MVP award.
Messi’s year has been one of incredible highs, both domestically and internationally. In addition to his MLS success, Messi also led Argentina to victory in the Copa America for the second time in his career.
The win solidified his status as one of the greatest players in the history of the sport, as he continues to shine on the international stage. Despite an injury that sidelined him during the international final, Messi’s contributions remained unparalleled, and he showed glimpses of what could have been an even more prolific season.
With 20 goals and 16 assists in limited appearances, it’s clear that Messi’s potential for 40 goal contributions was within reach—a target he could aim for next season as Miami looks to lift its first MLS Cup.
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With Messi on the field, Inter Miami transformed into a dominant force. The team suffered only one loss in the regular season when Messi was playing, a testament to his influence and leadership on the pitch.
Under Messi’s guidance, Miami broke the MLS points record, secured the Supporters’ Shield, and achieved the first-ever Shield title in the club’s history. His presence has been instrumental in elevating the team’s performance and bringing success to a franchise that is still in its early years.
Messi’s MVP award also adds him to an exclusive group of Argentine players who have won the honor.
He is the fifth Argentine to be named MLS MVP and the second in consecutive years, following FC Cincinnati’s Luciano Acosta, who claimed the title in 2023. Messi joins the ranks of Diego Valeri, Guillermo Barros Schelotto, and Christian Gomez, further solidifying Argentina’s impact on Major League Soccer.
While Messi and Inter Miami’s season did not end as they had hoped, with an early exit in the playoffs at the hands of Atlanta United, the future looks promising for the club.
With the addition of another former Barcelona star, Javier Mascherano, as the new head coach, Miami is poised to build on the success of this year and make another strong push for the MLS Cup next season. The combination of Messi’s talent on the field and Mascherano’s leadership from the sidelines could be exactly what Miami needs to take the next step.
Despite the challenges and setbacks, Messi’s first season in MLS has been nothing short of spectacular. His ability to adapt to a new league, lead his team to historic achievements, and win individual accolades demonstrates why he is considered one of the greatest players of all time.
As Inter Miami looks ahead to the future, there is no doubt that Messi will continue to be at the heart of their success, inspiring his teammates and thrilling fans with his extraordinary skill and passion for the game.
