Even after twenty years of soccer greatness, Lionel Messi isn’t slowing down.
During a special ceremony celebrating his world-record 46 titles with club and country, the Inter Miami star made it clear he’s still eager to make history with the Herons and the Argentina national team.
“I always try to give my best,” Messi shared with MARCA newspaper CEO Juan Ignacio Gallardo and Inter Miami co-owner Jorge Mas at Thursday’s event at Chase Stadium. “Coming to Miami wasn’t a retirement, not even close. It was about building something great here, with a club that’s still very new, and helping it grow by winning titles. Thankfully, we’ve already done that, and we’re on the verge of winning even more.”
Messi’s Journey in MLS
Since joining Inter Miami in the summer of last year, Messi has already helped the club secure the 2023 Leagues Cup and the 2024 Supporters’ Shield. Up next, Miami could break the MLS single-season points record with a win over the New England Revolution this Saturday (6 pm ET | MLS Season Pass).
The pursuit of their first-ever MLS Cup kicks off with Round One of the Best-of-3 Series in the Audi 2024 MLS Cup Playoffs on Friday, October 25 (8:30 pm ET | Apple TV – Free). For Messi, winning the MLS Cup would be the perfect way to cap off a season that began with sky-high expectations.
“It’s been a long year. I dealt with injuries, including a significant one that kept me out for nearly three months,” Messi said. “It was tough, not being able to play or train as I normally do. But thankfully, I’m back for the final stretch. I feel strong and healthy, and hopefully, we can finish the season on a high note.”
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Eyeing MVP and MLS Cup
Despite the setbacks, Messi has delivered an incredible 17 goals and 15 assists in just 18 appearances this season, putting him right in the mix for the Landon Donovan MLS MVP award. With a star-studded lineup that includes his former FC Barcelona teammates Luis Suárez, Sergio Busquets, and Jordi Alba, as well as 22 Under 22 standout Diego Gómez, Inter Miami heads into the playoffs as one of the favorites.
The eight-time Ballon d’Or winner and 2022 FIFA World Cup champion is determined to add an MLS Cup title to his already legendary career. “Winning a World Cup was a dream come true – something every player hopes for,” Messi said. “I’ve been fortunate to win many titles with Barcelona, and I’ve also won at PSG. Now, I’ve come here and won, so I can’t ask for more. But we’re close to more success, and as always, the goal is to keep fighting for more titles.”
Another World Cup on the Horizon?
Messi remains committed to Argentina, having recently helped them win a second consecutive Copa América. He’s also fresh off a brilliant showing in World Cup qualifiers, where he scored a hat trick and contributed two assists in a 6-0 win over Bolivia.
Still, at 37, Messi isn’t ready to confirm if he’ll compete in the 2026 World Cup in the U.S., Canada, and Mexico. “I’ve always believed that things happen for a reason, and I don’t like to look too far ahead, especially now,” he explained. “I just try to enjoy each day, live in the moment, and see what comes.
“… I hope to keep playing at this level, feeling good, and being happy. That’s my main focus, rather than thinking about the World Cup. I’m not setting it as a goal, but I’m taking things one day at a time and aiming to keep performing well.”
With his legendary career still in full swing, Messi’s journey with Inter Miami and Argentina continues to inspire fans worldwide.
