December 06, (THEWILL) – Lionel Messi has been awarded the 2024 Landon Donovan MLS Most Valuable Player after an exceptional debut season with Inter Miami.
The 37-year-old Argentine footballer clinched the prestigious honour following a remarkable campaign that saw him score 20 goals and provide 16 assists in just 19 matches.
Inter Miami achieved a league record of 74 points during the regular season, with Messi playing a pivotal role in the team’s success.
Despite being eliminated in the first round of playoffs, Messi’s individual performance stood out, making him the first player in Inter Miami history to receive this distinguished recognition.
MLS Commissioner Don Garber celebrated Messi’s achievement, stating, “Leo, congratulations. On behalf of our entire league, all of our country, and everybody that loves the game here and throughout the world, we are honoured to have you in our league.”
The commissioner emphasised the significance of having the world’s best player competing in Major League Soccer.
Messi joins an elite group of international players who have achieved the remarkable milestone of scoring at least 20 goals and 15 assists in a single MLS season.
His predecessors include Mexico’s Carlos Vela in 2019 and Italy’s Sebastian Giovinco in 2015, making obvious the exceptional nature of his performance.
During the MVP ceremony, Messi reflected on the season.
He said, “I would have liked to receive this award in another situation, being able to play the final on Saturday. We had a big dream of being MLS champions this year. It did not happen, but next year we will come back stronger to try again.”
The award adds another significant accolade to Messi’s illustrious career, which already includes a World Cup winner’s medal and a record eight Ballon d’Or awards.
He beat notable competitors including Columbus Crew’s Cucho Hernandez, Portland Timbers’ Evander, D.C. United’s Christian Benteke, and his Miami teammate Luis Suarez to claim the 2024 MVP title.
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
