Lionel Messi was named the 2024 Major League Soccer MVP on Friday.
The Argentine superstar led the league with 36 goal contributions during Inter Miami’s record-breaking regular season, scoring 20 times and providing 16 primary and secondary assists despite playing only 19 matches. Led by Messi, Miami established a new MLS record for points in a single campaign and claimed the Supporters’ Shield for the first time in club history.
Messi beat out teammate Luis Suarez, Golden Boot winner Christian Benteke, and All-Star forwards Evander and Cucho Hernandez to win the award and add new silverware to his overflowing trophy cabinet.
He’s the second consecutive Argentine to take home the accolade after FC Cincinnati’s Luciano Acosta received the honor in 2023.
Overwhelming favorites to win the MLS Cup, Inter Miami were eliminated in the first round of the playoffs, falling to Atlanta United.
The stunning upset resulted in manager Gerardo “Tata” Martino’s departure. Javier Mascherano, Messi’s compatriot and former teammate, has since succeeded Martino.
Messi’s contract with Inter Miami expires at the end of 2025, though the deal reportedly includes an option to extend his stay through 2026.
Other MLS award winners this season include Columbus’ Wilfried Nancy (coach of the year), LA Galaxy winger Gabriel Pec (top newcomer), and Cincinnati’s Luca Orellano (best goal).
