After concluding an impressive season by winning the MLS Cup on Saturday, Lionel Messi has been awarded the MLS MVP for the second consecutive year. Messi concluded the season with 48 goal contributions—29 goals and 19 assists—making him the second player in league history to lead in both categories alongside Sebastian Giovinco.

Scoring at least 50% of available points in games played, Messi’s reliability at 38 years is remarkable. He is only the second player, after Preki, to win the MVP award more than once.

This year, he triumphed against competitors like Anders Dreyer of San Diego FC, Denis Bouanga of Los Angeles FC, Evander from FC Cincinnati, and San Surridge of Nashville SC, capturing over 70% of the vote from media, players, and officials—a decisive victory.

Messi’s ability to produce impressive stats continued into the postseason, where he had six goals and nine assists. He has secured three trophies for Miami and recently extended his contract until 2028. With new arrivals like Rodrigo De Paul, expectations are high for further triumphs as the club seeks success in their upcoming season.