Messi’s 2025 MLS Ambition: Chasing Records and Golden Boots in Inter Miami’s Shadow
Just 15 MLS games into his Inter Miami tenure, Lionel Messi has already rewritten the club’s record books, eclipsing Gonzalo Higuaín with 54 goals and 25 assists in 65 appearances. He’s become the first MLS player to score at least twice in four consecutive matches and the first to net in the FIFA Club World Cup. With league records for most assists (five) and goal contributions (six) in a single game already under his belt, the question isn’t if Messi is impactful, but rather, what historic heights could he reach in 2025?
The Astonishing Pace of a Living Legend
Messi’s current season is nothing short of remarkable, boasting 14 goals and seven assists in just 15 appearances. This blistering form places him firmly in contention for both an MLS MVP title defense and a shot at one of the league’s most coveted individual accolades: the single-season scoring record. While the road ahead isn’t without its challenges, the Argentine maestro is demonstrating a level of consistency that suggests he’s far from finished rewriting MLS history.
Targeting the Golden Boot and Beyond
Currently trailing Nashville SC’s Sam Surridge by two goals in the MLS Golden Boot race, Messi has a prime opportunity to close the gap in their upcoming Saturday clash. A hat-trick could see him leapfrog Surridge, further solidifying his claim to individual honors this season. However, the ultimate prize – the all-time single-season scoring record – remains a formidable target.
The Mythical 30-Goal Barrier: A Statistical Challenge
To break Carlos Vela’s record of 34 goals set in 2019, Messi would need to score an additional 21 goals in Inter Miami’s remaining 16 regular-season games. This averages out to an astounding 1.3 goals per game, a rate he’s proven capable of achieving. Factors like a slightly slower start and managed minutes, which saw him miss three games, likely prevented him from being even closer to this benchmark.
The elite club of MLS single-season goalscorers reads like a who’s who of the league’s offensive titans:
- Carlos Vela: 34 goals (2019)
- Josef Martínez: 31 goals (2018)
- Zlatan Ibrahimović: 30 goals (2019)
- Bradley Wright-Phillips: 27 goals (2014)
- Chris Wondolowski: 27 goals (2012)
While the single-season scoring record might be a stretch for 2025, securing both the Golden Boot and the MLS MVP award in the same season, a feat accomplished by Vela in 2019, appears well within Messi’s grasp. His increased output in multi-goal games and his sustained health this season paint a picture of a player peaking at the right time.
Inter Miami’s Trajectory and Messi’s Influence
Messi’s arrival has undeniably elevated Inter Miami’s profile and performance. The team’s ability to compete for top honors, even with the added pressures of integrating a global superstar, speaks volumes about the club’s ambition and Messi’s enduring leadership.
The 2025 Outlook: More Than Just Goals
Looking ahead to 2025, the narrative around Messi and Inter Miami is poised to become even more compelling. The team will undoubtedly aim to build upon their current successes, potentially challenging for domestic and international trophies. For Messi, this next chapter presents an opportunity to further cement his legacy in Major League Soccer, pushing boundaries and setting new benchmarks for future generations.
The prospect of Lionel Messi MLS records in 2025 is not just about individual statistics; it’s about the continued evolution of the league and the captivating influence of one of the greatest players of all time. His journey with Inter Miami is a testament to his relentless pursuit of excellence, proving that even at the twilight of his career, the magic of Messi continues to dazzle.
What’s Next for the Argentine Maestro?
The current MLS Golden Boot leaders highlight the competitive landscape Messi navigates:
- Sam Surridge (Nashville SC): 16 goals
- Lionel Messi (Inter Miami): 14 goals
- Hany Mukhtar (Nashville SC): 13 goals
- Evander (FC Cincinnati): 12 goals
- Dejan Joveljić (LA Galaxy): 12 goals
As the season progresses, the duel for the scoring title will undoubtedly intensify. Beyond that, the anticipation for Messi’s 2025 campaign, with the potential for even greater statistical achievements and team success, is already building. His presence elevates the entire league, making every match a must-watch event.
What are your predictions for Lionel Messi’s 2025 MLS season? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
