Lionel Messi Drives Inter Miami to Playoffs While Setting MLS Milestones

Lionel Messi has propelled Inter Miami back into the MLS Cup playoffs while chasing a historic individual scoring record. The Argentine star's two-goal performance in a 3-1 win at Atlanta United on Saturday, October 19, took his season tally to a league-leading 25 goals. With four regular-season games left, he is just nine goal contributions shy of the MLS single-season record.

Messi's Commitment Shines After Prestigious Honor

Fresh from receiving the Princess of Asturias Award for sport in Oviedo, Spain, Messi is set to rejoin Inter Miami for their match against the New York Red Bulls this Saturday. Head coach Cristian "Kily" González praised the captain's dedication. "What fills me with pride is his commitment to the club," González said on Friday, October 18. "He, after all this emotion that he is living in Spain, has his own initiative to be here with us tomorrow and play." Messi became the first individual football player to win the award, which recognizes notable achievements and personal values.

A Record-Setting Season in MLS

Messi's influence on Inter Miami's late-season surge is undeniable. His brace against Atlanta United followed a key assist in a 2-0 win over New York City FC on Wednesday, October 16, which officially clinched a playoff berth. In that Atlanta match, he also tied for the league lead with his 15th assist, making him the first player in MLS history with at least 15 assists in three straight seasons.

Playoff Momentum Builds Under New Coach

The team has found form at the perfect time, winning consecutive league matches for the first time since July. The victory over NYCFC was the second league win for coach González, who took over on September 16. Messi set up Rodrigo De Paul for a goal just before halftime in that match, sealing a result that guarantees Miami a chance to defend its MLS Cup title. The club currently sits second in the Eastern Conference with 55 points from 30 games.

Legends See Records Surpassed in Europe

While Messi dominates in North America, a pair of his longstanding Champions League records were broken this week. On Wednesday, October 23, Kylian Mbappé became the youngest player to reach 100 appearances in the competition at age 27, surpassing Messi's previous mark. On the same night, Erling Haaland became the youngest to score 60 Champions League goals, beating Messi's record by a single day.

Financial Powerhouse Status Endures

Off the pitch, Messi remains a global commercial force. This includes a $70 million salary from Inter Miami and $75 million from endorsements and investments. While second to Cristiano Ronaldo's $300 million, the combined earnings of the two legends account for nearly half of the top ten footballers' total income. Messi's contract runs through 2028 and includes an option for a club ownership stake upon retirement.

• Key Takeaways
• Messi has 25 goals and 15 assists for Inter Miami this season, nearing the MLS single-season goal contribution record.
• Inter Miami has clinched an MLS playoff spot and sits second in the Eastern Conference.
• Messi's total projected earnings for 2026 are $145 million, combining salary and commercial deals.
• He will play against the New York Red Bulls on Saturday after receiving the Princess of Asturias Award in Spain.