Lionel Messi: The Comeback Kid Dominating MLS Action
Two months away from the pitch might slow down most players, but for Lionel Messi, it seems like merely a short intermission. After suffering a minor ankle injury during the Copa America Final in July, the soccer superstar returned to Major League Soccer (MLS) with a vengeance, showcasing his undiminished brilliance. While he may have felt some fatigue after his hiatus, there was no doubt that his scoring prowess remained intact.
Messi’s impact on the field has been nothing short of extraordinary. Having already made waves upon his arrival in the MLS, he continued to elevate his game, rendering his brief absence merely a pause in what has become a sensational season. Just recently, Messi added another trophy to his accolades as he helped Inter Miami clinch the MLS Supporters Shield. His stunning free-kick and brace in a nail-biting 3-2 victory against the Columbus Crew solidified his reputation as a game-changer in the league.
Messi’s Unbelievable MLS Stats
Looking at the numbers, Messi’s stats in MLS with Inter Miami are astounding and likely leave fans in awe. So far, he has participated in 30 games across all competitions, amassing an impressive 27 goals and 17 assists. It’s these numbers that help justify why he’s considered among the best in the world.
Here’s a closer look at his scoring breakdown for the 2024 season:
- MLS: 17 games, 17 goals, 10 assists
- CONCACAF Champions Cup: 3 games, 2 goals, 2 assists
- All Competitions: 20 games, 19 goals, 12 assists
To say he’s made an impact would be an understatement; his performance is nothing short of stellar.
The Inter Miami Journey Begins Anew
The 2024 MLS season kicked off on February 21, beginning with an exciting home match for Inter Miami against Real Salt Lake. Messi made an immediate impact, providing an assist and contributing to the team’s 2-0 victory. As David Beckham’s franchise continues to forge its legacy, expectations are sky-high for Inter Miami, especially with Messi leading the charge.
After beginning the season strong, fans are eager to see how head coach Tata Martino will strategize this star-studded lineup. Will Messi steer the team toward unprecedented success, or will formidable contenders spoil the party?
Contenders for MLS Glory
Inter Miami now stands amongst the favorites to claim the MLS title. However, competition is fierce, with clubs such as FC Cincinnati, last year’s MLS Cup champions Columbus Crew, and Miami’s in-state rivals Orlando City ready to make a deep playoff run. Let’s not forget the constant threat from teams like LAFC and the Colorado Rapids, who have proven time and again that they can hold their own in high-stakes situations.
Inter Miami’s Upcoming Schedule
With an exciting series of matches coming up, fans can hardly wait to see Messi’s next moves. Here’s a sneak peek into the upcoming fixtures, all times listed in ET:
- October 5: at Toronto FC, 7:30 PM
- October 19: vs New England Revolution, 6:00 PM
Messi’s Impact Revisited
Despite missing time due to his injury and participating in international duty with Argentina at the Copa America—where he emerged victorious—Messi’s cameo performances have continued to showcase his undeniable talent. He was absent for various matches during the summer, yet Inter Miami displayed incredible resilience, rebounding well in his absence.
His return sparked an immediate turnaround, and fans have expressed collective joy watching him dazzle on the pitch again. From his record-setting assists to his high goal tally, every match seems to turn into a highlight reel, leaving fans thirsty for more magic.
In short, Lionel Messi’s foray into the MLS has been a story filled with milestones, record-breaking performances, and a team gearing up for genuine contention. As the season rolls on, fans globally are set to witness more chapters unfolding in this thrilling saga. Whether you’re an ardent Messi fan or merely invested in the thrilling world of soccer, one thing is certain: excitement awaits as Messi continues to etch his name into the annals of MLS history.