Open Reactions
After an unparalleled career in which he has achieved everything possible, a narrative persists among Messi’s detractors that attempts to suggest he is receiving help in acquiring the numerous trophies he has won.
Despite the overwhelming admiration he receives, there remains a notable portion of critics who aim to downplay the Argentine’s career. They propagate the idea that his many achievements are somehow aided by organizations such as FIFA, Conmebol, France Football, and now MLS, all purportedly working in favor of him, the player considered the best in the world.
However, this couldn’t be further from the truth. A superficial glance at Messi’s statistics and performances reveals the magnitude of his accomplishments, especially highlighting the greatest of them all—the 2022 World Cup victory.
In Qatar, Messi showcased brilliance akin to that of Diego Maradona, as noted by Jorge Valdano. Argentina demonstrated superiority over all seven rivals they faced, justifying their championship and solidifying Messi’s status as the player with the greatest career in history, as supported by the numbers.
It is astonishing that there are still voices attempting to tarnish or downplay Messi’s achievements. It’s worth noting that he is largely indifferent to individual accolades, especially at this stage in his career.
Winning another Major League Soccer MVP will not alter the legacy of ‘La Pulga’, making the continued scrutiny of his accomplishments seem trivial. His impact, influence, and transformation of soccer in the United States are undeniable.
In 2024, Messi played 19 league matches with Inter Miami, scoring 20 goals and providing 16 assists, contributing to a historic regular season in which the club broke the points record and claimed the Supporter’s Shield title.
On the downside, he suffered a sprained ankle during the Copa América final, causing him to miss at least two months and resulting in his club’s early elimination from the playoffs, despite being favorites for the championship.
Even as he claimed yet another MVP award, which will surely be questioned despite the obvious merits, it is clear Messi is now in the twilight of his career, enjoying the game alongside old friends while still competing for collective honors.
The critiques from his many detractors have reached a point where they seem almost laughable, considering the extensive list of achievements he has amassed. At this juncture, Messi stands as a monumental figure in sports history, and his legacy only grows with each passing achievement.
In conclusion, Messi’s journey continues to inspire fans around the world, illustrating not only talent but resilience and dedication to the game. As he embraces this new phase of his career, one can only hope for more magic on the field, even in the face of relentless criticism.