Lionel Messi has secured the Landon Donovan MVP Award for the 2024 MLS season, solidifying his impact on Inter Miami’s performance. At 37 years old, Messi stood out among notable competitors including Columbus Crew’s Cucho Hernández and his teammate Luis Suárez, thanks to an impressive tally of 20 goals in just 19 matches.
This achievement places Messi among an elite group of players in MLS history who have recorded at least 20 goals and 15 assists in a season, a feat previously accomplished by Carlos Vela and Sebastian Giovinco. His nomination came from a poll that included players, club technical staff, and select media, where he garnered 38.43% of the votes, outperforming second-place finisher Christian Benteke, who received 33.70%.
Despite only playing in 55% of competitive matches during the regular season, primarily due to an ankle injury sustained during the Copa América final, Messi’s presence on the field was undeniable. His average of over one goal every 90 minutes led the league, and he set a record with 2.18 goal contributions per match over 1,485 minutes played.
MLS Commissioner Don Garber emphasized Messi’s global significance, likening his appeal to that of cultural icons like Michael Jackson and Taylor Swift. Messi’s contributions were pivotal in helping Inter Miami secure the Supporters’ Shield and reach a record 74 points during the season. However, the team’s campaign ended prematurely with a first-round playoff exit against Atlanta United.
In light of recent developments, Inter Miami also saw a coaching change with Javier Mascherano stepping in after Gerardo “Tata” Martino resigned.
As the MLS Cup final approaches, with the LA Galaxy taking on the New York Red Bulls, the league continues to evolve, and Messi’s talents only contribute to its growing popularity. This season’s recognition of Messi’s prowess is not just about individual accolades; it showcases the exciting future of soccer in the MLS and how international stars are elevating the league’s profile on the world stage.
This narrative encapsulates a mixture of achievement and transition, promising a hopeful trajectory for the franchise as they adapt and strive for greatness in future seasons.