At this point in his career, you might think that Lionel Messi has nothing left to prove. Eight Ballons d'Or, a World Cup, hundreds of goals and as many trophies: the record speaks for itself. And yet, the Argentinian continues to surprise. This weekend, he added a new chapter to his already monumental history, setting a completely new record — the kind of feat no one saw coming, even among his most fervent supporters.
The “Messi show” American version
Because it is in Major League Soccer, under the colors of Inter Miami, that the Argentine genius has struck again. Author of a hat-trick in the big 5-2 success against Nashville, Messi won the title of top scorer in the championship with 29 goals, but above all a record whose significance goes beyond statistics: he became the first player in the history of MLS to score 28 goals in the game in a single season. A feat all the more remarkable as he voluntarily let others take the penalties. At 38, he also scored 10 multi-goal games, a first in the North American championship.
The native of Rosario completes the exercise with 48 decisive contributions (goals and assists combined), flirting with Carlos Vela's absolute record (49 in 2019). He also holds the title of best passer, tied with Anders Dreyer, and becomes the second player in MLS history to dominate these two rankings in the same season. Add to that six consecutive player of the week trophies, a record of consistency which reflects his constant impact in a league that he transformed through his simple genius.
Mascherano bows to the “GOAT”
His coach, Javier Mascherano, who was once his teammate at Barça and in the national team, did not hide his admiration: “Messi is the greatest player my eyes have seen. He closed the debate a long time ago. » At a press conference, the Argentinian technician confided that he had “no doubt” about his upcoming coronation as MVP of the season. Above all, he highlights an essential aspect: “ Leo is happy, with family, alive. And when he is happy, football becomes easy for him. »
Behind this new record lies a larger reality: Messi has not finished writing. As his contract in Miami expires, discussions are already underway to extend it until 2027, when he would celebrate his 40th birthday. Between the upcoming playoffs and the prospect of a new individual title, the story continues. And with Messi, there is only one certainty: every season, he will still find a way to invent a record that no one would have thought of.
