Messi Aims for MLS Golden Boot on Decision Day

FORT LAUDERDALE, FL – Lionel Messi, the Argentine World Cup champion, plays a crucial match at 6 p.m. ET on Decision Day, Saturday, October 18, at GEODIS Park. Together with teammates Sergio Busquets, Jordi Alba, and Luis Suárez, Messi is set to define their legacies in Major League Soccer.

The stars will compete in their final regular season match together, marking a significant moment for the players who joined Inter Miami in July 2023. Busquets and Alba have announced their retirements at the end of the season, while Suárez, having recently reached the milestone of 600 career goals, is also contemplating his future in the league.

Messi currently leads the league with 26 goals and is in contention for the MLS Golden Boot, and securing the title could further solidify his chances of becoming the league’s first back-to-back MVP. He also has a league-high 18 assists, providing a total of 44 contributions this season, just five shy of Carlos Vela’s record of 49.

Despite not being in contention for the MLS Supporters’ Shield this year, as they clinched it last season, Miami aims for the MLS Cup, the only major trophy missing since Messi’s arrival. Analysts emphasize that winning the Cup will significantly shape their legacies. Two-time Golden Boot winner Bradley Wright-Phillips remarked, “You can’t assemble the Avengers, and not win MLS Cup.”

Despite the pressure, fellow players believe Messi’s legacy is secure, regardless of the outcome. “He’s going to be the first ever player to win MLS MVP in back-to-back seasons, and his legacy is not going to be ruined if he doesn’t lift an MLS Cup,” said Kaylyn Kyle, Olympic medalist.

As the postseason approaches, Inter Miami is poised for another match next week as they aim for the MLS Cup. With more challenges ahead, Messi’s performance will undoubtedly be watched closely as he seeks to add to his remarkable career.