Lionel Messi remains 'far above the rest' & 'deserves all the awards' as Jordi Alba tips iconic Inter Miami team-mate to add MLS MVP award to his remarkable trophy collection

Eight-time Ballon d’Or winner Messi is a leading contender for that prize in 2024, alongside Herons team-mate Luis Suarez. They have both reached the 20-goal mark this season, with their efforts contributing significantly to more history being made in Florida.

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Inter Miami have claimed the Supporters’ Shield, breaking the single season points record in the process, and now have their sights set on MLS Cup glory. Messi will be looking to lead by example in the play-offs, with Alba explaining why the iconic Argentine remains the best player on the planet.

Quizzed on Messi’s claims to the MVP award, ex-Barcelona defender Alba told reporters: "Every time you ask me, I think that he deserves all the awards that they can give him. I think he is the best player in the world, he is by far above the rest and that will be the case until he retires. I’m sure he will win it, and if not, it will be a decision made by no-one but the people who voted."

Inter Miami’s success this season has earned them a place at the 2025 Club World Cup, with Alba looking forward to gracing that competition again as David Beckham and Co push the Herons into a global market. The former Spain international added: "I think it’s important for Inter Miami, for the city, and for the country in general, I think it’s important to measure ourselves against these types of teams.

"Luckily, I’ve already played against them, but most of the squad have not had the opportunity to play against the type of players from these teams. It will be difficult, but I think it’s a great success to be there and to try to compete at our maximum as always. For the club, and above all for the players and for David who has been here a long time and has been working for a long time, I think that it is important to see the growth of the club, and we’ll try to leave as big a legacy as possible."

Inter Miami will open their bid for MLS Cup glory against Atlanta United on Friday. They are the No.1 seeds, with Tata Martino finding a way of keeping his side consistent during a gruelling campaign – even when talismanic captain Messi has been missing through injury.