Messi Shines in 2025 and Eyes World Cup Glory

Lionel Messi had an exceptional 2025 with Inter Miami, contributing significantly to the team’s historic MLS Cup victory. Alongside this collective achievement, the South American icon secured both the Golden Boot and MVP honors, making him the first player to win the latter in consecutive seasons.

Following his inspirational leadership that led Argentina to a World Cup title in Qatar in 2022, Messi is anticipated to represent the national team in their title defense during the upcoming summer tournament, which will be jointly hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico.

Should he excel once again for the Albiceleste in this quest for international success, it could pave the way for his ninth Golden Ball award—an achievement that seems within reach for the Argentine maestro.

Having illuminated the highest levels of football for over two decades, many feel fortunate to have played alongside or against Messi, widely regarded as the greatest of all time (GOAT).

David Villa, a teammate of Messi during his time at Barcelona, expressed his admiration in an interview with El Chiringuito, stating, “Without a doubt. By far. I still say that until he retires, Messi will continue to be the best player in the world.” Villa further acknowledged Messi as the best player he has encountered on the pitch.

Echoing Villa’s sentiments, fellow former Spain international Raúl labeled Messi as the best player he has ever played with, despite having shared the field with legends like Zinedine Zidane and Cristiano Ronaldo. Raúl noted, “He makes everything look easy, as if he were playing with his friends in the street.”

At Barcelona, Villa also regarded Carles Puyol as the most formidable defender he faced and expressed admiration for Luis Enrique, calling him his “idol.” Villa reminisced about his favorite goal, scored during the 2011 Champions League final, where Barcelona triumphed over Manchester United, and highlighted Andrés Iniesta’s dramatic goal for Spain in the 2010 World Cup final as a standout moment.

Currently, Villa closely follows Messi’s journey at Inter Miami and the performances of his former club, especially the emergence of Lamine Yamal from the prestigious La Masia academy. Yamal, now an 18-year-old player, is making headlines as he carves out his own legacy at Barcelona.

Messi has signed a new contract with Inter Miami that will extend his tenure in MLS until the end of the 2028 season, aiming to secure more prestigious titles before retiring. As he prepares for another World Cup, he will face fierce competition, particularly from the reigning European champions Spain, who are eager to claim their first global title since Villa and his teammates celebrated victory in South Africa.