Lionel Messi: Argentina legend wins MLS Most Valuable Player Award after stellar Inter Miami season

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Lionel Messi has won the Landon Donovan MLS Player of the Year award for the 2024 season after his stellar outing with Inter Miami.

The Argentine football maestro's involvement was critical in propelling the Herons to clinch their first-ever Supporters' Shield while amassing a league-record 74 points. At 37 years old, Messi's influence in the Major League Soccer (MLS) was nothing short of phenomenal, leading the league with an impressive tally of 36 goal contributions, which included 20 goals and 16 assists across just 19 matches.

During a heartwarming ceremony orchestrated by the academy players of Inter Miami, Messi was taken by surprise as the young talents formed an "MVP" configuration to break the news to him. Overwhelmed by the gesture, Messi shared his heartfelt appreciation, stating, "Truly, it is an honor for me to receive this award from all of you,"

Messi's first season with Inter Miami has been marked by record-breaking performances, placing him in the elite company of Carlos Vela (2019) and Sebastian Giovinco (2015) as the only players in MLS history to achieve at least 20 goals and 15 assists in a single season.

In the 2024 season, Messi scored 20 goals and had 16 assists in an injury-stricken year. The Argentina legend was only limited to 19 appearances during the regular season and then two playoff appearances.

The former Barcelona ace won the award after receiving 38.43% of votes, beating Colombus Crew's Cucho Hernandez who managed 33.7% of the votes.

Amid this, Messi's future at Inter Miami still hinges on a balance. Although he has been tipped to extend his stay at the MLS club, nothing is confirmed as of yet. The recent appointment of former Argentina midfielder Javier Mascherano as new head coach is likely to play a key part in Messi's future. Also the upcoming FIFA Club World Cup in 2025 may well be another important factor.