Lionel Messi finished a remarkable season with Inter Miami, being awarded the Landon Donovan MVP Award for the 2024 MLS season. This accolade was announced on Friday, where he outperformed competitors such as Cucho Hernández from Columbus Crew, Evander from Portland Timbers, Christian Benteke from D.C. United, and his own teammate, Luis Suárez.
At 37, Messi’s performance was nothing short of extraordinary, with 20 goals in just 19 matches, marking him as one of only three players in MLS history to achieve 20 goals and 15 assists in a single season. The award is determined by votes from players, club staff, and selected media, and Messi secured 38.43% of the total votes, leading the way ahead of Benteke’s 33.70%.
Messi’s first full season with Inter Miami began in July 2023, and despite being sidelined for 62 days due to an ankle injury during the Copa América final, he significantly influenced the team’s performance. Even when he was unavailable, Inter Miami excelled, winning eight out of nine matches without him.
Throughout the regular season, Messi averaged a goal every 90 minutes, leading the league in scoring, and contributing to a record-breaking total of 74 points for Inter Miami. His outstanding performance helped the team win the Supporters’ Shield and secure the No. 1 seed heading into the postseason, although they faced an early exit after losing to Atlanta United.
During the announcement, MLS Commissioner Don Garber recognized Messi’s impact on and off the field, likening his status to that of global entertainment icons, emphasizing the excitement and attention he brings to Major League Soccer.
Messi received his MVP award from his sons, Thiago, Ciro, and Mateo, alongside students from Inter Miami’s youth academy. In an inspiring message to young athletes, he encouraged them to pursue their dreams with dedication and passion.
In a season filled with highs, including impressive statistics and awards, the disappointment of an early playoff exit serves as motivation for the future. The parallel journey of coaching change, with Javier Mascherano stepping in after Gerardo “Tata” Martino’s resignation, further adds a dynamic element to the team’s trajectory.
As the MLS Cup final approaches, where the LA Galaxy will face off against the New York Red Bulls, fans are keenly watching how the legacy of players like Messi will continue to shape the landscape of American soccer.
This season is not just a testimony to Messi’s enduring talent but also a glimpse into the potential for growth and excitement in MLS as it continues to attract global stars and talent. With promising developments ahead, there’s a strong sense of optimism for what comes next both for Messi and Inter Miami.