When Messi was still playing, the MVP title was almost decided.

Lionel Messi keeps proving his unmatched status in the MLS by securing the MVP honor for the second year running, despite his age, leaving the U.S. league with virtually no competition.

Lionel Messi continues to assert his exclusive position in the MLS by being named the Most Valuable Player of the season for the second straight time. According to former striker Rob Earnshaw, as long as the Argentine superstar remains active, almost no one can prevent him from claiming the MVP title each year.

Joining Inter Miami in 2023 after leaving PSG, Messi brought not only the glory of an eight-time Ballon d’Or winner but also injected a fresh vitality into American soccer. Under David Beckham’s guidance, Inter Miami quickly rose to become a formidable force, with Messi at the heart of every success.

In a short time, Messi has helped Inter Miami capture numerous titles such as the Leagues Cup, Supporters’ Shield, and MLS Cup, becoming the club’s greatest icon. The pinnacle was the 2025 season, when he won the MLS Golden Boot with 43 goals across all competitions and was again named MVP.

Notably, Messi is maintaining peak performance at age 38, defying all conventional sports norms. Speaking to the media, Rob Earnshaw stated that the MLS is almost “powerless” against Messi. According to the former Welsh striker, while most players decline in speed, skill, and impact after 35, Messi does the opposite.

Earnshaw emphasized: Messi still dribbles, assists, scores, and controls the game as if he’s at his career peak. He easily outplays players a decade younger, delivers pinpoint passes, and makes a difference whenever he steps on the field. This all-around excellence makes Messi not only Inter Miami’s MVP but also the league’s MVP.

Messi’s influence goes far beyond the sport itself. Earnshaw believes that without Messi, Inter Miami would struggle to win their first major trophy, and MLS wouldn’t have the global appeal it enjoys today. Messi’s presence has elevated the entire league, enhancing its quality, image, and commercial value.