The Major League Soccer (MLS) landscape is currently buzzing with anticipation as Lionel Messi and Luis Suárez, iconic forwards for Inter Miami CF, dominate the narrative as frontrunners for the prestigious MLS MVP award. The league announced a comprehensive list of 34 nominees this week, featuring other notable talents such as FC Cincinnati’s Lucho Acosta, Columbus Crew’s Cucho Hernández, and LA Galaxy’s Riqui Puig. The MLS MVP voting process has officially commenced, slated to continue until October 21, and the excitement surrounding this year’s nominees is palpable.
Since joining MLS on July 15, 2023, Lionel Messi has not only captured the hearts of fans but is also making a compelling case for his first MVP title. Despite encountering a series of injuries that sidelined him for significant stretches, including a recent two-month rehabilitation for a right ankle injury, Messi’s contribution has been nothing short of sensational. In just 18 matches, he has netted 17 goals and assisted 15 times, placing him among the league’s elite performers. Although he has been absent from the pitch for periods due to commitments with the Argentina national team, his impact on the league has been monumental, having tied for fourth place in the Golden Boot standings—a feat that speaks volumes about his prowess.
Luis Suárez has also made waves in his inaugural MLS season, scoring 18 goals and providing seven assists across 26 matches. The seasoned Uruguayan striker has adapted seamlessly to the rigors of American soccer, currently ranking third in the Golden Boot race. His partnership with Messi has not only enhanced his performance but has been pivotal in Inter Miami’s success in the Supporters’ Shield, showcasing their collective scoring ability. Together, Messi and Suárez account for a staggering 35 of the team’s 73 goals this season, cementing their status as one of the most formidable attacking duos in the league.
In addition to fighting for the MVP title, both Messi and Suárez stand as candidates for the MLS Newcomer of the Year award, illustrating the depth of talent within Inter Miami. Alongside them, teammates Matías Rojas and Federico Redondo have been nominated for other individual honors, such as the MLS Young Player of the Year, while the recognized defender Jordi Alba competes for the Defender of the Year accolade. This not only highlights the dramatic transformation of the team but also reflects the managerial acumen of head coach Gerardo Martino, who is up for the Sigi Schmid MLS Coach of the Year award.
The voting mechanism is a critical component of the award determination process. Between October 7 and 21, MLS club staff, players, and media members are tasked with evaluating the nominees’ performances based solely on their contributions to the regular season, explicit in the league’s guidelines to exclude considerations from various cup competitions or international appearances. Each voting group’s input—club staff, players, and media—contributes equally, promoting fairness and comprehensive representation in the selection process.
The transformation of Inter Miami CF in the 2024 season is nothing short of remarkable. After finishing in 14th place in the Eastern Conference with only 34 points in the previous season, the team has clinched the Supporters’ Shield as of October 2, 2024, and is in pursuit of breaking the single-season points record. With a pivotal match against the New England Revolution set for October 19, Inter Miami stands on the brink of achieving a historic milestone, potentially surpassing the 73-point record set in 2021.
As the playoffs approach, Inter Miami finds itself with robust momentum. The Herons will kick off their postseason journey on October 25 at Chase Stadium in Fort Lauderdale against the winner of the Eastern Conference wild card match, solidifying their home advantage. With Messi and Suárez leading the charge and the team riding high on an impressive season, the stage is set for a thrilling conclusion to the MLS season, with the world watching closely as these stars aim for both individual accolades and team glory.