Lionel Messi’s MLS Journey: Dominance and Future Prospects

Lionel Messi has not definitively confirmed his participation in the upcoming World Cup, as the new MLS season is set to commence in the spring. Nonetheless, the 39-year-old superstar is expected to spearhead the defense of the global title he helped secure in Qatar 2022.

Currently, the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner is brimming with confidence after clinching a domestic title in the United States, further solidifying his status as the most decorated player in football history. Last season, Messi netted an impressive 43 goals in 49 appearances, making history as the first player to win back-to-back MVP awards in MLS. His recent commitment to a new contract extending to 2028 indicates that he shows no signs of slowing down.

Dwight Yorke, a former Manchester United striker and current manager of the Trinidad & Tobago national team, has been closely monitoring Messi’s impact in North America. Yorke remarked that “Lionel Messi has made MLS his playground,” likening his current enjoyment of the game to that of a child playing in a park. He emphasized that despite nearing the end of his career, Messi continues to showcase his exceptional talent.

Yorke further expressed admiration for Messi’s remarkable consistency, stating, “When you have that kind of ability, sometimes you don’t have to do too much. He’s never been the most workmanlike professional, but his ability is unquestionably the best in the world.”

He cautioned against underestimating Messi due to his age, noting, “Don’t write him off just because he’s got that special X-factor that he can still produce a bit of magic.” Yorke is eager to see how Messi performs in the World Cup, particularly against younger and more aggressive opponents. Despite the challenges, he firmly believes that Messi remains the best player in the world.

Messi’s enjoyment of life in Miami is evident, and Yorke is excited to witness his continued brilliance on the field. However, some critics, like Terry Phelan—who previously played in the U.S. with Charleston Battery—argue that the competition level in MLS may not adequately prepare Messi for the World Cup. Phelan stated, “If Messi really wants to get that appetite, he needs to go somewhere that he’s going to get better competition for himself. It’s too easy.”

While recognizing Messi’s impressive statistics, Phelan cautioned that the current environment might not be conducive to Messi’s preparation for the World Cup. He noted the commercial success Messi has brought to MLS and the potential for Miami to develop further but emphasized the need for Messi to consider his future role with the Argentine national team.

Despite these concerns, Messi has no intention of seeking a new environment, having recently agreed to a new deal in South Florida. He remains an interested observer as David Beckham and the other co-owners of Inter Miami work on recruitment strategies for the upcoming 2026 MLS season.