Messi’s Historic Milestone
Lionel Messi continues to redefine greatness in Major League Soccer (MLS). On Saturday night, the Argentine icon recorded his 100th goal contribution for Inter Miami during a commanding 4-1 victory over the New England Revolution. Reaching this mark in just 80 matches, Messi became the fastest player in MLS history to achieve 100 combined goals and assists for a single club.
Messi’s performance was nothing short of spectacular. The seven-time Ballon d’Or winner delivered three assists, dictating the tempo of the match and leading Miami’s attack with his trademark precision. This masterclass raised his 2025 season totals to 24 goals and 17 assists, amounting to an astounding 41 goal contributions. With that feat, Messi joined Carlos Vela as only the second player in MLS’s three-decade history to surpass 40 goal contributions in one regular season — Vela’s record of 49 set in 2019 still stands as the target to beat.
Leading the League in Goals and Assists
Messi’s influence in the 2025 campaign extends well beyond individual matches. The World Cup-winning captain currently tops the MLS Golden Boot race with 24 goals, edging out LAFC’s Denis Bouanga, who has 23. Meanwhile, in the assists category, Messi trails San Diego FC’s Anders Dreyer by just one. Should he maintain his momentum, Messi could achieve a rare double — leading the league in both goals and assists — a feat few players have ever accomplished.
This dual dominance also puts Messi firmly in contention for a second consecutive MLS Most Valuable Player (MVP) award. His consistent brilliance has been pivotal in Inter Miami’s climb up the standings, transforming the club into one of the most formidable sides in the league.
International Duties Could Impact His Chase
Despite his exceptional form, Messi’s pursuit of individual records faces a potential setback. The 38-year-old is set to miss Inter Miami’s upcoming home match due to international duty with Argentina. This absence could give Bouanga an opportunity to close the scoring gap, as LAFC still have four fixtures left in their regular-season schedule, including a key clash against Atlanta United.
Messi’s return is anticipated for Miami’s final match of the season against Nashville SC — a game that could prove decisive in both the Golden Boot and assist title races. With the pressure mounting, the stage is set for another thrilling chapter in Messi’s storied career.
Chasing Vela’s MLS Record and More
At 38, Messi shows no signs of slowing down. His current pace puts him within reach of Carlos Vela’s all-time MLS record of 49 goal contributions in a single season — a mark once thought untouchable. Depending on Miami’s playoff progress, Messi could have several more opportunities to surpass that historic total.
Beyond MLS, Messi’s numbers continue to astonish. Following his three assists against New England, he now sits at 395 career assists across all competitions, just five shy of the 400 milestone. No active footballer comes close to this tally; in fact, no other current player has even surpassed 300 assists. This remarkable gap underscores Messi’s unmatched consistency and creative genius over more than two decades of professional football.
A Legacy Beyond Numbers
Messi’s impact extends far beyond statistics. His arrival in MLS has not only elevated Inter Miami’s global profile but also transformed the league’s visibility on the international stage. Every match he plays draws record-breaking crowds and worldwide viewership, reaffirming his status as one of football’s greatest ambassadors.
As the 2025 season winds down and the 2026 World Cup approaches, Messi’s record-breaking form could serve as a prelude to yet another defining year in his unparalleled career. Whether or not he eclipses Vela’s record or secures another MVP title, his influence on the game — both on and off the pitch — remains immeasurable.
For Inter Miami and Major League Soccer, Messi’s 100-goal-contribution milestone is more than just a number; it’s a testament to excellence, longevity, and the enduring magic of a player who continues to rewrite football history with every touch.
