MIAMI, Dec. 6 (UPI) — In a dazzling display of skill and determination, Inter Miami’s illustrious forward, Lionel Messi, has clinched the coveted title of 2024 Major League Soccer MVP, a formal announcement reverberating across the league on this momentous Friday.
Messi, enveloped in the warmth of a surprise tribute in Fort Lauderdale before a crowd of eager academy players, expressed, “Truly, it is an honor for me to receive this award from all of you.” His words resonated with emotional depth as he reflected on the pride he felt witnessing young talents train fervently. “I’m incredibly pleased to be here every day, in this beautiful city and an expanding club. Watching you all grow brings me joy,” he added, a beacon of inspiration urging the youth to relentlessly pursue their dreams.
A veritable phenomenon, Messi outshone the competition in MLS with a staggering 36 goal contributions—20 dazzling goals and 16 brilliant assists—culled from just 19 matches played. His impact was instrumental in propelling the Herons (22-4-8) to their historic Supporters’ Shield victory, granted for the most triumphs, while simultaneously etching a new league record with an impressive 74 points this season. A true maestro, Messi averaged an astonishing 2.18 goal contributions per 90 minutes during his inaugural full season.
Consistently electrifying, Messi notched either a goal or an assist in 15 of his 19 appearances, with an impressive 11 of those outings yielding multiple contributions. “On behalf of our entire league, all of our country, and every football aficionado here and beyond, we’re honored to have you among us,” proclaimed MLS commissioner Don Garber, celebrating the star’s monumental presence. “To witness the best player on the planet thrive in Major League Soccer? It’s a dream realized for all of us.” His closing words were a heartfelt nod to the next generation: “This league exists to forge a path for you to ascend and one day emulate these remarkable figures, possibly becoming legends like Leo Messi. Congratulations!”
In the voting deluge, Messi garnered an impressive 38.4% of the accolades from players, media, and clubs in the pursuit of MLS MVP recognition. Hot on his heels was Columbus Blue Jackets’ forward, Cucho Hernandez, amassing 33.7% of the votes. The race culminated with Portland Timbers midfielder Evander, DC United forward Christian Benteke, and Inter Miami’s own Luis Suarez making up the esteemed Top-5.
In a strategic move, the Herons have inked Suarez to a one-year contract extension mere days before this announcement, further fortifying their squad’s prospects.
