Lionel Messi sets new record in MLS with Inter Miami

Lionel Messi sets new record in MLS with Inter Miami

Hassan Abdulsalam 18:59 - 06.12.2024

Argentine maestro Messi scored 20 goals and provided 16 assists in just 19 appearances.

Former Barcelona and PSG star Lionel Messi has been named the 2024 Major League Soccer Most Valuable Player.

Inter Miami captain Lionel Messi | Imago

The Argentine superstar's impact on Inter Miami was undeniable, as he led the team to a record-breaking regular season and a Supporters' Shield title.  

Despite missing some part of the season due to injury, Messi still managed to contribute 20 goals and 16 assists in just 19 appearances.

Lionel Messi's achievement marks the 10th time a South American player has won the MLS MVP award and the fifth time for an Argentine.

Messi joins a prestigious list of Argentine MVPs, including Luciano Acosta, Diego Valeri, Guillermo Barros Schelotto, and Christian Gomez.  

The 37-year-old joined Inter Miami in July 2023 on a contract that lasts until the end of the 2025 MLS season, with no option for a 2026 extension.

Lionel Messi and Luis Suarez have already lit up the MLS with Inter Miami | Instagram

However, Inter Miami is confident that the Argentine star will stay with the team as the Herons transition from Chase Stadium in Fort Lauderdale to the new Miami Freedom Park.

Inter Miami co-owner Jorge Mas has expressed confidence that Lionel Messi will remain with the club until at least the end of the 2026 MLS season.

"Messi is under contract through 2025; Leo and I will sit and discuss the future. As I have said before, and I will repeat it now: I fully expect that in the opening of our new stadium in 2026 and the opening of our 2026 MLS season after a trophy-laden 2025 season, that Leo Messi will be our No. 10," he said via ESPN.

Inter Miami has been drawn in Group A and will face Al Ahly in the expanded FIFA Club World Cup.

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