‘Wasn’t my MVP’ – USMNT legend Alexi Lalas reacts to Lionel Messi award as Inter Miami superstar is named best in MLS for 2024

Despite enduring an injury-hit campaign in Florida, which ended with play-off heartache being suffered against Atlanta United, eight-time Ballon d’Or winner Messi has another prestigious prize to add to his record-breaking collection.

He did help Inter Miami to Supporters’ Shield glory, setting a new single season points record in the process, and posted 22 goals and 12 assists across his outings in MLS – with 36 goal contributions registered in total across all competitions.

While he did not walk away with the ultimate MLS Cup prize, former USMNT star Lalas has told his State of the Union podcast of seeing the Argentine GOAT recognised as the top-performing player in North America: “Messi being MVP, even though he wasn’t my MVP, I have no problem [with this outcome]. What he did, even in a limited amount of time, shows that he’s still not only the MVP and justifiably the MVP of MLS, but one of the great players still playing in the game.”

Messi will be back for more in 2025, as he still has a year left to run on his contract at Chase Stadium – and the option for a further 12-month extension beyond that. Inter Miami will be eager to savour MLS Cup glory, while also turning out in the Leagues Cup, CONCACAF Champions Cup and FIFA Club World Cup.