Lionel Messi is not the most valuable player in MLS - this Argentine youngster tops the list

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Lionel Messi, one of football's greatest players has made a huge impact on Major League Soccer (MLS) since joining Inter Miami last year. Despite his extraordinary influence, Messi however is reportedly not the league's most valuable player.

Messi's move to Inter Miami in July 2023, after leaving Paris Saint-Germain (PSG), became a turning point for the MLS team. Inter Miami, previously languishing at the bottom of the MLS standings, experienced an immediate revival under Messi's leadership. The Argentine maestro played a pivotal role in securing the Leagues Cup for Inter Miami and significantly improving their league performance.

In the ongoing season, Messi has been instrumental in guiding Inter Miami to the top of the MLS table, contributing 11 goals and 12 assists.

His stellar performances have placed him among the league's most valuable players, though he ranks second in this regard. According to TransferRoom, Atlanta United's midfielder Thiago Almada holds the highest expected transfer value in the MLS at £17.7 million, while Messi follows with a valuation of £14.9 million.

Thiago Almada, who joined Atlanta United as a designated Player in 2022, has promptly risen to fame in MLS. In 2023, Almada was honored as the MLS Young Player of the Year, an accolade for the most promising player aged 22 or younger.

He led the league with 19 assists and six goals from outside the penalty area that season. He also became the first active MLS player to win the FIFA World Cup, earning this milestone with Argentina.

This year, Almada has continued to impress, scoring three goals and providing two assists in 13 matches. His exceptional form has not only enhanced his value but also his recent showing against Lionel Messi's Inter Maimi where Atlanta United won 3-1, has made a strong case about his profile.

At 23, Almada's remarkable performances have attracted the attention of several top European clubs, making him one of the most sought-after talents in the ongoing summer transfer window. His consistent showings have set a high benchmark, even surpassing the legendary Messi on several occasions.