Inter Miami’s Star Lionel Messi Wins MLS MVP Award

December 7, 2024: Lionel Messi has been named the 2024 Landon Donovan Major League Soccer (MLS) Most Valuable Player (MVP) after an extraordinary season with Inter Miami. The Argentine forward, an eight-time Ballon d’Or winner, clinched his first MLS MVP award, having enjoyed a record-breaking campaign in the league.

Messi, who joined Inter Miami in July 2023, had a standout performance in the regular season, scoring 20 goals and providing 16 assists in just 20 games. His 36 goal contributions in a single season rank as the fifth-highest total in MLS history. Messi’s influence on the field was undeniable; during the 18 games he played, Inter Miami only lost once, registering 12 wins and six draws. His presence was crucial in helping Miami secure a record 74 points in the regular season.

The prestigious Landon Donovan MLS MVP award has been presented annually since 1996, with the winner selected by a poll of players, club staff, and media members. Messi emerged victorious with 38.43% of the vote, beating Columbus Crew’s Cucho Hernández, who finished second with 33.70%.

Messi’s performance in the regular season was historic, as he averaged an MLS-record 2.18 goal contributions per 90 minutes. His ability to consistently make an impact on the pitch helped redefine the level of play in MLS.

However, despite dominating the regular season, Inter Miami’s playoff campaign fell short. The team suffered a 2-1 loss to Atlanta United in the first round of the playoffs, which ended their postseason run.

Looking ahead, Messi is set to return to MLS for the 2024 season, joined by former FC Barcelona teammates Jordi Alba, Sergio Busquets, and Luis Suárez. Additionally, Javier Mascherano, another former Barcelona legend, will take over as Inter Miami’s head coach after Tata Martino stepped down from the position.

Messi’s incredible impact on MLS continues to grow, and with new reinforcements joining Inter Miami, expectations for the next season are sky-high.