Lionel Messi has been named Major League Soccer’s Most Valuable Player (MVP) for the 2024 season, marking an incredible achievement for the Argentine superstar and his club, Inter Miami.
The star, now 37, received this prestigious award at a surprise ceremony held at the club’s Chase Stadium in Fort Lauderdale on Friday, underscoring the immense impact he has had in his debut season in the MLS. Messi’s performance was nothing short of spectacular, as he clinched his first MVP honor since joining the league, further solidifying his legacy in the world of soccer.
During the regular season, Messi showcased his extraordinary talent by scoring 20 goals and providing 16 assists in just 20 games, all while playing less than 1,500 minutes. Such numbers are indicative of his unparalleled skill and influence on the pitch. His contributions propelled Miami to a record-setting campaign, where they set the new points record for the regular season with a remarkable total of 74 points.
Under Messi’s leadership, the team boasted an impressive record of 12 wins, 1 loss, and 6 draws in matches where he participated, clearly demonstrating his pivotal role in their success. The voting for the Landon Donovan MLS MVP award was notably competitive, reflecting Messi’s dominance in the league, as he averaged 38.43 percent support from players, clubs, and media. Columbus Crew’s Cucho Hernandez was a strong contender, finishing second with 33.70 percent.
Despite Inter Miami’s stellar regular season, playoff success eluded them, as they were eliminated in the first round by Atlanta United, losing the best-of-three series 2-1. This outcome was disappointing for Messi and the team, especially considering their aspirations of clinching the MLS Cup.
At the MVP ceremony, a group of academy players formed the letters ‘MVP,’ with Messi’s three sons adorably stationed at the base of the “V,” eagerly waiting to hand him the Landon Donovan Trophy, signifying his recognition as the best player in Major League Soccer.
Throughout the season, Messi played a critical role in guiding Inter Miami to victory in the regular-season Supporters Shield. However, their journey in the MLS Cup was cut short by Atlanta United. Notably, Messi set a league record with an average of 2.18 goal contributions per 90 minutes during the 2024 regular season, with his total of 36 goal contributions ranking fifth in the league’s history.
In a heartfelt speech delivered to an assembly of young players, Messi expressed his joy in being part of the club and the city. “I’m very happy to be here every day. I’m very happy to be in this city, in this club that is growing,” he stated, emphasizing his commitment to the team’s future.
He further remarked, “I would have liked to have received this award in another situation, being able to play the final next Saturday. But that is also what football is about, overcoming yourself every day. We had a big dream of being MLS champions this year. It didn’t happen, but next year we’ll come back stronger to try again.”
MLS commissioner Don Garber echoed the sentiments of gratitude towards Messi, stating, “We’re honoured to have you in our league. To have the best player in the world as the best player in Major League Soccer is something that dreams are made of,” encapsulating the excitement and pride surrounding Messi’s presence in the league.
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