Messi crowns historic Inter Miami season as MLS dominance fuels World Cup debate
Lionel Messi capped a remarkable 2025 campaign by leading Inter Miami to a historic MLS Cup triumph, collecting the Golden Boot and MVP awards in a season that reinforced his enduring influence on the game.
The Argentine icon was once again at the center of Miami’s success, combining goals, leadership, and decisive moments as the club secured its first MLS Cup, while Messi became the first player to win the league’s MVP award in consecutive seasons.
Beyond the silverware, the scale of Messi’s output stood out. He finished the campaign with 43 goals in 49 appearances, underlining his status as the most decorated player in football history and silencing doubts about his impact at 39.
The achievement arrives at a pivotal moment. Messi remains non-committal about his role at the 2026 World Cup, but his form in the United States has positioned him as a potential leader for Argentina’s title defence after their success at Qatar 2022.
Across the season, Inter Miami played with renewed confidence and control. Home crowds were consistently energized, with Messi dictating tempo, drawing defenders, and allowing teammates to thrive around him as the club evolved into one of MLS’s most watchable sides.
Key moments repeatedly swung Miami’s way. Messi’s vision unlocked deep defensive blocks, his finishing punished small errors, and his calm presence ensured control during high-pressure phases of decisive matches.
His goals came in all forms. Precise finishes inside the box, trademark curling strikes from range, and decisive contributions in big fixtures defined a campaign that felt both dominant and methodical.
After the break in several matches, Miami often tightened their shape while Messi conserved energy, choosing moments to strike. Tactical adjustments around him allowed the team to manage games more effectively as the season progressed.
Late in matches, Messi’s influence was unmistakable. Whether through a final pass, a set-piece delivery, or a moment of improvisation, Miami repeatedly closed out results with authority.
The focus now shifts forward. With a contract extension secured through 2028, Messi remains central to Inter Miami’s plans, while his performances continue to fuel debate over his readiness for the 2026 World Cup and the lasting reach of his extraordinary career.