The 2025 MLS season has been a testament to Lionel Messi’s enduring brilliance, culminating in a series of remarkable achievements and nominations for major honors. The Inter Miami CF captain has not only led his team to the Eastern Conference playoffs but has also secured the prestigious MLS Golden Boot and is a strong contender for the league’s Most Valuable Player award. His impact on the league continues to be transformative, drawing further attention to Miami and the sport of soccer in the United States.
Messi’s Dominant 2025 Season
Lionel Messi’s 2025 campaign with Inter Miami has been nothing short of spectacular. He finished the regular season with an astounding 29 goals and 19 assists in 28 appearances, marking the second-highest total for goal contributions in a single MLS season, just shy of Carlos Vela’s 2019 record. This prolific scoring output earned him the 2025 MLS Golden Boot presented by Audi, making him the first player in Inter Miami history to achieve this feat. He outpaced his closest competitors, LAFC’s Denis Bouanga and Nashville SC’s Sam Surridge, who each scored 24 goals.
Beyond his goal-scoring prowess, Messi’s overall impact has been immense. He is the third player since 2005 to score at least 29 goals in a Golden Boot-winning season, and his 1.03 goals-per-game average ranks second only to Carlos Vela’s 2019 campaign. Notably, 28 of his 29 goals were scored from open play, setting a new MLS record for non-penalty goals in a single season. His 48 goal contributions also place him second all-time for a single MLS season.
Contention for MLS MVP and Goal of the Year
Messi’s exceptional performances have firmly placed him in contention for the Landon Donovan MLS MVP award for the second consecutive year. His statistical dominance and consistent game-changing ability have made him the odds-on favorite for the honor. This would be a historic achievement, making him the first player in MLS history to win the MVP award in back-to-back seasons.
Furthermore, Messi has been nominated for the 2025 MLS Goal of the Year award. His breathtaking solo effort against CF Montreal on July 5 has been shortlisted for the fan-voted honor. The goal saw Messi weave through multiple defenders with his signature dribbling before finishing with precision, showcasing the individual brilliance that has defined his career. Voting for this award was open until Friday, October 24, with fans determining the winner from a shortlist of 16 goals.
Inter Miami’s Playoff Push
Messi’s stellar individual season has also propelled Inter Miami into the Audi 2025 MLS Cup Playoffs. The team secured the No. 3 seed in the Eastern Conference and is set to face Nashville SC in a Round One best-of-three series, commencing on Friday, October 24. This playoff appearance marks a significant step for the club as they aim to compete for the MLS Cup, with Messi looking to cap off his record-breaking season with championship silverware. The team’s overall offensive output has been a highlight, with Inter Miami scoring 81 goals in the regular season, making them the third team in MLS history to surpass the 80-goal mark.
Historical Significance and Legacy
Lionel Messi’s impact extends beyond individual accolades and team success. His ninth career Golden Boot, this time in MLS, signifies a unique achievement in his illustrious career, making him the Argentine player with the most top-scorer titles in first-division leagues. His contributions have not only elevated Inter Miami but have also significantly boosted the profile of Major League Soccer globally. As he continues to perform at the highest level, Messi is solidifying his legacy as one of the greatest players of all time, showcasing that his unparalleled skill and drive remain undiminished. The 2025 season stands as a remarkable chapter in his storied career, demonstrating his continued ability to dominate on any stage.
The news also highlights the competitive landscape of MLS, with other notable players like Denis Bouanga and Sam Surridge also having strong goal-scoring seasons. The league’s push for growth and its increasing prominence are underscored by the presence of global superstars like Messi competing for top honors. The 2025 MLS awards season promises to be a fitting celebration of a league that continues to attract world-class talent and deliver compelling soccer action.
