Lionel Messi is forecasted to further his legacy in America, with the chance to be the first MLS player ever to secure the season’s MVP title two years in a row.
At 38 years old, Messi continues to perform at an elite level astonishing the entire world. He recently scored twice and provided an assist in Inter Miami’s 4-0 victory over New York City FC, extending both his and the team’s impressive streak. So far, Messi has netted 24 goals in the 2025 MLS season, leading the scoring charts and emerging as the top candidate for the MVP award.
Beyond scoring, Messi directly influences the gameplay. He has earned 18 Man of the Match awards this season, the highest in the league. On Sofascore, Messi consistently achieves perfect 10 ratings, a remarkably rare feat. Throughout his career, he has received a perfect 10 score 50 times, far surpassing Neymar (18), Mbappe (17), Ronaldo, and Harry Kane (13). This highlights the Argentine superstar’s absolute dominance.
Across all competitions, Messi has scored 32 goals and provided 13 assists in 35 matches for Inter Miami. He also became the first MLS player ever to reach at least 35 combined goals and assists in two consecutive seasons. This achievement is even more impressive considering Messi has played only 23 games in the 2025 MLS season, far fewer than his competitors for the title.
The MVP race this year still features strong contenders like Anders Dreyer from San Diego FC, Denis Bouanga of LAFC, and Sam Surridge from Nashville. However, Messi’s outstanding form during the crucial stage has almost tipped the balance entirely in his favor. At 37, he continues to stand out, scoring spectacular goals and leading Inter Miami towards the Supporters' Shield and MLS Cup titles.
With five matches remaining in the 2025 MLS season, Messi can still extend his record while helping Inter Miami defend their championship. Even in the twilight of his career, Messi proves he is not just a star but a living symbol of soccer’s timeless greatness.
Messi is closing in on an unprecedented milestone in MLS history, as he is the strongest candidate to win the Most Valuable Player award for a second consecutive season. Once again, El Pulga is turning what seemed impossible into reality in the U.S., where he is writing the glorious final chapter of his illustrious career.