Lionel Messi has been named MLS Player of the Matchday for Matchday 22 following a standout performance in Inter Miami’s emphatic 4-1 victory away to CF Montréal, Softfootball reports.
As gathered from goal.com, the Argentine produced a dazzling display, scoring a brace and providing an assist as the Herons came from behind to claim all three points. After Montréal opened the scoring, Messi teed up Tadeo Allende for the equalizer and put his side ahead just before the break.
Telasco Segovia added a third for Miami before Messi delivered the moment of the match, and perhaps the season, with a solo effort that saw him beat six defenders before finishing with composure.
The performance continuously expressed Messi’s influence since arriving in MLS. The eight-time Ballon d’Or winner is now tied for third in the league for total goal contributions (19), with 12 goals and seven assists, while leading all players in goals per game at 0.86.
This marks the ninth time Messi has been named MLS Player of the Matchday, making him just the 11th player in league history to receive the award at least nine times. He joins Josef Martínez (Atlanta United) as the only active player to have reached that milestone.
As Messi’s performance continually showed his commitment to the Herons, despite rumours of potentially leaving the American side. Softfootball had earlier reported Messi’s interest in getting a tougher competition ahead of the forthcoming World Cup next year.
According to the gathered report, Lionel Messi may make a shock return to Europe once his contract with Inter Miami expires in December 2025, which would likely attract the attention of potential European clubs.
The 38-year-old, who joined the MLS side in 2023 after leaving Paris Saint-Germain, has brought a wave of popularity and competitiveness to the American league.
