As the 2024 Major League Soccer (MLS) season approaches its climax, the spotlight is firmly on Lionel Messi, who has been named a finalist for the prestigious MVP award. His nomination comes as no surprise to fans and analysts alike, as he has shown remarkable prowess on the field since his arrival at Inter Miami CF in July 2023. Competing alongside notable players such as Luis Suárez, Cucho Hernández, Evander, and Christian Benteke, Messi’s achievements reflect not only his individual brilliance but also the evolution of Inter Miami into a formidable force in the league.
Messi’s Impressive Stats: A Contribution Beyond Time on the Field
In a mere 19 appearances, Messi has delivered an astounding 20 goals and 16 assists, marking a stellar contribution that underscores his value to the team. Nonetheless, his limited participation—playing just 55% of the matches in a 34-game season—has stirred debates regarding his MVP credentials. His statistics are impressive, yet they raise questions about the fairness of his candidacy compared to those who competed in the entirety of the season. Despite concerns regarding his minutes played, the influence he has exerted on the pitch, as evidenced by Inter Miami’s impressive season, cannot be overlooked.
Jordi Alba, Messi’s teammate and fellow nominee for Defender of the Year, has expressed unwavering support for the Argentine forward. Alba’s passionate endorsement highlights the respect and admiration Messi commands within the locker room. “I think he is the best player in the world,” Alba stated confidently, reinforcing the belief that individual accolades are deserving of his extraordinary performances. This sentiment reflects a broader consensus among players and fans alike about Messi’s unparalleled talent, which has continuously set him apart in the league.
The 2024 MVP race features a diverse pool of talent, each player making compelling cases for the accolade. Luis Suárez, another marquee signing for Inter Miami CF, has also excelled during his first year in MLS, recording 20 goals and nine assists. His adaptation to the league has galvanized the team, demonstrating the potent attacking options present within Inter Miami. Meanwhile, other notable nominees, such as Benteke, who clinched the Golden Boot with 23 goals, and Hernández, who starred for the Columbus Crew with 19 goals and 14 assists, have each had significant impacts on their respective teams.
However, while each contender has their accolades, it’s essential to consider the cumulative effect Messi has had on Inter Miami’s fortunes. Together, Messi and Suárez accounted for a whopping 40 goals of the team’s total 79, contributing directly to their achievement of the Supporters’ Shield and a record-setting point tally for the league.
As the MVP discussions unfold, it’s vital to recognize the coaching talent present in the league as well. Finalists for the Sigi Schmid MLS Coach of the Year award, including Gerardo “Tata” Martino of Inter Miami, also reflect the strategic mastermind behind the team’s success. Coaches like Martino have been pivotal in harnessing the collective strengths of their star players while also developing the overall team chemistry necessary for sustained success in a league as competitive as MLS.
While the MVP award holds significant value, it is essential to understand that soccer is a collective game. Messi, Suárez, Benteke, and others have all played crucial roles in shaping the current MLS landscape. Analyzing the stats and public opinion, Messi emerges as a strong candidate, yet the narrative surrounding the MVP race speaks to more than just individual brilliance—it’s about the spirit of teamwork and the shared journey toward greatness. Regardless of the eventual outcome, 2024 has been a year to remember in MLS, with talent flourishing, records being shattered, and legends being born.