Lionel Messi, who has made a significant impact in Major League Soccer (MLS), has been recognized as the MLS Golden Boot winner and is a strong contender for the MVP award. His impressive performance this season includes 29 goals and 19 assists, putting him just one goal contribution shy of the league record set by Carlos Vela in 2019. This outstanding achievement positions Messi to potentially become the first player in MLS history to win back-to-back MVP awards.
Announced by MLS on Wednesday, the Best XI list features prominent players from nine different clubs. Messi, representing Inter Miami, is joined by teammates from various countries, with six players receiving this honor for the first time in their careers. The Philadelphia Union and Vancouver Whitecaps each have multiple representatives on the list, showcasing the competitive talent present in the league.
The finalized 2025 MLS Best XI includes:
– Forwards: Denis Bouanga (LAFC), Anders Dreyer (San Diego FC), Lionel Messi (Inter Miami CF)
– Midfielders: Sebastian Berhalter (Vancouver Whitecaps), Evander (FC Cincinnati), Cristian Roldan (Seattle Sounders)
– Defenders: Tristan Blackmon (Vancouver Whitecaps), Alex Freeman (Orlando City), Jakob Glesnes (Philadelphia Union), Kai Wagner (Philadelphia Union)
The selection process involved collaboration between the media, MLS players, and technical staff members from the clubs, ensuring a well-rounded representation of talent throughout the league.
Messi’s journey in MLS has been notable, as he turned down a lucrative offer from Saudi Arabia to join Inter Miami, underlining his commitment to developing soccer in the United States. His previous experiences at Paris Saint-Germain, where he faced challenges, seemed to have shaped his decision, leading him to embrace the opportunities and growth that MLS has to offer.
As teams prepare for upcoming matches, particularly in the CONCACAF Champions Cup, Messi’s influence continues to inspire and elevate the growth of soccer in North America. His exceptional play serves as a beacon of hope for the future of the sport in the region, exciting fans and players alike. The ongoing evolution of MLS, with marquee players like Messi at the forefront, showcases a promising direction for soccer in the U.S., as it garners increasing attention and support.