Lionel Messi’s foray into Major League Soccer (MLS) has been nothing short of sensational. As the league gears up for the 2024 MVP award, Messi’s nomination echoes both his immense talent and the impact he’s made since joining Inter Miami CF in July 2023. Alongside his teammate Luis Suárez and other notable players like Cucho Hernández, Evander, and Christian Benteke, Messi solidifies his place among the league’s elite through an impressive performance that has captivated fans and critics alike.
The MLS has introduced new eligibility regulations which stipulate that players must accumulate at least 1,000 minutes on the field during the regular season to qualify for the MVP award. This aligns with the league’s aim to ensure that only the most consistently performing athletes compete for the prestigious title. Despite Messi participating in only around 55% of Miami’s games this season, his contributions—boasting 20 goals and 16 assists in just 19 matches—speak volumes. This marks Messi’s second nomination for the award, and the stakes feel higher than ever.
One of Messi’s most ardent supporters is Jordi Alba, a key player for Inter Miami. In a recent statement, Alba fervently declared that Messi is deserving of every accolade available, asserting, “I’m sure he’ll win the MVP.” Such endorsements from fellow players highlight the profound respect that Messi commands within the team and the broader soccer community.
However, the narrative around Messi’s participation has inevitably raised eyebrows. With the insistence that he should clinch the MVP award despite playing a fraction of the season, conversations surrounding what constitutes value in sports awards arise. Is the MVP most reflective of total minutes played, or should it primarily focus on impactful performance regardless of participation levels? In sports, as in life, the debate continues as fans and analysts strive to reconcile statistical achievements with the narrative of excellence.
In Messi’s pursuit of excellence, it is essential to recognize that he is not alone. He shares the spotlight with Suárez, another talented forward, who has also made waves in his debut MLS season. Scoring 20 goals and registering nine assists in 27 matches, Suárez has quickly established himself as a crucial player for the team, tying for second place in the Golden Boot rankings along with Messi and Denis Bouanga. Together, their combined efforts account for an astonishing 40 of Inter Miami’s total of 79 goals, demonstrating their offensive synergy.
In contrast, others in the running for MVP possess impressive track records, even while facing challenges. Benteke, who captured the Golden Boot with a remarkable 23 goals, saw his efforts fall short when D.C. United failed to qualify for the playoffs. Evander’s performance for the Portland Timbers, notwithstanding his team’s unfortunate exit, showcased his potential with 15 goals and 19 assists. Meanwhile, Hernández, the reigning MLS Cup MVP, propelled the Columbus Crew to a commendable second place in the Eastern Conference with his own impressive tally of 19 goals and 14 assists.
As the 2024 MLS MVP race unfolds, it is not solely about personal accolades but also reflects a shift in the league’s culture and competitive spirit. The accolades extend beyond the MVP, with finalists for the Sigi Schmid MLS Coach of the Year and Newcomer of the Year illustrating the diverse talent across the league. Coaches like Gerardo “Tata” Martino, who led Inter Miami to showcase its potential, and promising newcomers like Suárez, symbolize the blooming era of international talents joining MLS.
Ultimately, while Messi’s journey may be under the spotlight, the broader canvas of MLS presents a flourishing and competitive environment filled with talent, potential, and stories of resilience. The outcome of the MVP race could very well redefine what it means to achieve greatness in this rapidly evolving soccer landscape. Whether Messi claims the title or not, his impact is undeniable, setting a high bar for years to come.