Lionel Messi’s inaugural season in Major League Soccer (MLS) has culminated in a remarkable recognition, as he was awarded the Landon Donovan MVP Award for the 2024 season. This prestigious accolade underscores Messi’s significant contributions to Inter Miami and marks another milestone in a storied career. However, his path to this honor has been anything but straightforward, marred by injuries and team dynamics that have further highlighted his exceptional skill and perseverance.
In claiming the MVP title, Messi outshined notable competitors, including Columbus Crew’s Cucho Hernández and D.C. United’s Christian Benteke. While their talents are undeniable, Messi’s 20 goals and 16 assists in just 19 matches set him apart from the pack, marking him as a player whose impact transcends mere statistics. His ability to maintain high performance even in a league not traditionally known for attracting elite global talent speaks volumes about his skill level. The MVP voting process, which involves players, technical staff, and media representatives, reflects a consensus acknowledging Messi’s dominance in the league, where he garnered 38.43% of the votes, surpassing Benteke’s 33.70%.
Despite the accolades, Messi’s journey in the league has seen its fair share of adversity. He appeared in only 55% of the regular-season games due to a significant ankle injury sustained while representing Argentina in the Copa América. His absence for over two months raised questions about his physical durability in MLS, a league often characterized by its physicality and demanding schedule. During this downtime, Inter Miami demonstrated resilience, winning eight out of nine matches without him, reflecting the depth and adaptability of the team.
Messi’s return to the pitch wasn’t just about personal recovery; it also required significant recalibration for both him and the team. This duality highlighted an interesting dynamic—while Messi is undeniably a transformative player, his absence allowed other players to flourish and find form, showcasing the collective strength of the squad. However, it was ultimately his exceptional performance when available that solidified his status as a game-changer.
Messi’s statistics are nothing short of astounding. With an average of over one goal every 90 minutes, he has set a league record with 2.18 goal contributions per match, according to MLS data. This statistical prowess places him in an elite category, joining only a select few who have achieved at least 20 goals and 15 assists in a single season—Carlos Vela and Sebastian Giovinco. Such statistics serve as a testament to Messi’s ability to redefine the parameters of performance in the league, subsequently raising expectations for players around him.
The achievement of winning the MVP title is merely another accolade added to Messi’s already staggering collection, which includes eight Ballon d’Or awards and numerous other global honors. This legacy positions Messi not just as a player for Inter Miami but as an ambassador for soccer in the United States. MLS Commissioner Don Garber’s statement comparing Messi’s global appeal to that of iconic cultural figures like Michael Jackson signifies the magnitude of his presence in American soccer, moving beyond statistics into the realm of cultural impact.
While Messi’s individual accolades are remarkable, they come in a season that ended abruptly for Inter Miami, who lost in the first round of playoffs against Atlanta United despite finishing first in the regular-season standings. This disappointment casts a shadow over their accomplishments and raises questions about the future trajectory of the team under new management. Following the resignation of Gerardo “Tata” Martino, Javier Mascherano has taken the helm, potentially reshaping the team’s strategy and dynamics to better suit Messi’s unrivaled talents.
As soccer continues to grow in the United States, Messi’s role in MLS will be pivotal in influencing not just local talent but also the perception of the league on a global scale. The upcoming MLS Cup final, featuring strong contenders like LA Galaxy and the New York Red Bulls, will serve as a reminder of the competitive landscape Messi entered—a landscape now marked forever by his unique contribution and transformative presence. As he continues to inspire both young players and seasoned professionals alike, the question remains: how will Messi’s legacy evolve in the rapidly changing world of American soccer?