Lionel Messi has undeniably lit up Major League Soccer (MLS) since joining Inter Miami.
His impact on the field has been spectacular, leading the league in goals and assists on a per-game basis, with 28 goal contributions in just 18 appearances.
However, the big question remains: should Messi win the 2024 MLS MVP, even though he’s only played about half the season?
Messi’s per-90-minute stats are unmatched this year. He’s outscoring and out-assisting almost everyone, but he’s only played 55% of Miami’s games.
Historically, MVP awards in North American sports go to players who’ve played the majority of the season, and Messi’s limited appearances would make him the least active MVP winner ever.
There are other strong MVP contenders like Christian Benteke, Cucho Hernández, and Luciano Acosta, who have been crucial for their teams throughout the season.
Benteke, for instance, has scored 44% of DC United’s goals, which could be seen as more “valuable” in terms of team reliance.
Messi’s situation draws comparisons to Neymar’s 2017-18 season at PSG, where he won Ligue 1’s Player of the Year despite missing many games.
So, the big question is whether MLS will follow that rare precedent or stick with its traditional MVP criteria.
While Messi’s stats are extraordinary, it will be interesting to see if voters value his limited but outstanding contribution enough to make him the MVP.
