Lionel Messi the MLS MVP? Only a ‘clown’ would disagree as ex-USMNT star Taylor Twellman hails Inter Miami superstar for ‘rewriting history’ in the United States

The Argentine icon moved to the United States midway through the 2023 season. He inspired a historic Leagues Cup triumph within weeks of his arrival, but saw injury hinder a bid to deliver a playoff berth for the Herons.

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Messi is doing his best to put Inter Miami in contention for more major honours this season, with 11 goals recorded through 10 appearances in all competitions. He has been named matchday MVP on a couple of occasions, including last time out when registering two goals and an assist in a 4-1 victory over the New England Revolution.

Former USMNT star Twellman is of the opinion that Messi has been the standout player in MLS this year, saying when delivering his assessment of the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner: “It is getting very difficult for me to quantify with words what it’s like to watch Lionel Messi play in person. For Messi to give the fans what they paid for, and then also to rewrite history. Nine goals, seven assists, in seven games – that’s less than 600 minutes. He’s the first player in the league to do so. And the best part is, the Revolution felt like they defended him well! Everyone knows it’s coming yet they freeze in the moment and in the blink of an eye, the man goes to work. But the number that stands out to me more is this: In 24 MLS games he’s had since coming to the league, he’s only lost three times. The consummate professional, the demanding winner and more importantly, the greatest of all time. Can you believe there’s people out there that actually think he’s not MVP of the league to this point? What a clown!”

Messi has helped Inter Miami to the top of the MLS Eastern Conference, with 21 points collected from 11 games. They are expected to sustain a challenge for ultimate glory and will be back in action on Saturday when playing host to the New York Red Bulls.