Key Points
• Lionel Messi has secured his 46th career trophy by winning the 2024 MLS Supporters’ Shield with Inter Miami CF, establishing himself as the most decorated footballer in history. His extraordinary performance includes 17 goals and 15 assists in just 17 MLS matches.
• Messi’s impact extends beyond club success, having led Argentina to victory in the 2022 FIFA World Cup and winning back-to-back Copa América titles in 2021 and 2024. His remarkable career continues to redefine football excellence at the age of 37.
A Meteoric Rise in MLS
Lionel Messi, widely regarded as one of the greatest footballers of all time, continues to etch his name into the annals of history with each passing season. His latest achievement, securing the 2024 MLS Supporters’ Shield with Inter Miami CF, marks his 46th career trophy, solidifying his position as the most decorated footballer in history.
Messi’s journey to this milestone began with a dramatic entrance into the MLS. His debut against Cruz Azul was nothing short of spectacular, as he scored a stunning free-kick winner in stoppage time, setting the tone for what would be a whirlwind tournament. Inter Miami’s victory in the 2023 Leagues Cup, with Messi contributing 10 goals and 4 assists in just seven matches, was a testament to his influence and skill.
Under Messi’s leadership, Inter Miami transformed from a struggling team to the dominant force in MLS. The club amassed 68 points in the regular season, securing their place as the best regular-season team in MLS history. Messi’s numbers have been nothing short of astonishing, with 17 goals and 15 assists in just 17 MLS matches, rivaling some of his best seasons in Europe.
A Legacy of Records and Accolades
Messi’s career is replete with records and accolades. He is the all-time top scorer for Barcelona, with 672 goals, and holds the Guinness World Record for most official goals in a calendar year (91 goals in 2012). His trophy cabinet is filled with an array of titles, including four UEFA Champions League trophies and 10 La Liga championships during his time at Barcelona. He also added three more trophies during his brief stint with Paris Saint-Germain, including back-to-back Ligue 1 titles.
International Success
Messi’s international career has been equally impressive. He led Argentina to victory in the 2022 FIFA World Cup, a crowning achievement in his illustrious career. He also won back-to-back Copa América titles in 2021 and 2024, cementing his status as one of the greatest players in international football history.
The Future of Football
As Messi continues to rewrite the history books, one question remains: How much more can he achieve? With the Supporters’ Shield now in hand and a potential MLS Cup on the horizon, Messi shows no signs of slowing down. The football world watches in awe as the 37-year-old maestro proves that records are meant to be broken—especially when you’re Lionel Messi.
Inter Miami’s Managing Owner, Jorge Mas, recently honored Messi for his remarkable achievement of 45 titles during a pregame ceremony at Chase Stadium. Mas praised Messi’s leadership and his ability to elevate everyone around him, making him an example for young players in the Inter Miami youth academy.
In conclusion, Lionel Messi’s journey is a testament to his unwavering dedication, unparalleled skill, and unrelenting passion for the sport. As he continues to break records and achieve new milestones, the world of football remains in awe of this football legend. With his latest triumph, Messi has solidified his place as the most decorated footballer in history, leaving an indelible mark on the sport that will be remembered for generations to come.
