Inter Miami superstar Lionel Messi has joined Carlos Vela in one of Major League Soccer’s most exclusive statistical clubs after delivering a masterclass in creativity, recording three assists in a 4-1 win over New England Revolution.
Messi’s latest outing takes his assist tally for the 2025 MLS season to 17, adding to the 24 goals he has scored in league play. Across all competitions, the Argentine icon now has 32 goals, once again underscoring his transformative impact on Inter Miami.
Vela’s Record-Breaking Benchmark
The 38-year-old Messi is now just two goal contributions behind Carlos Vela’s iconic 2019 season, where the former LAFC and Arsenal forward was involved in 49 goals — a combination of goals and assists that remains the gold standard for a single MLS regular season.
With only two regular season fixtures remaining, it’s uncertain whether Messi will eclipse that mark, but his current form suggests it’s not out of the question.
Inter Miami’s Playoff Push Continues
While Inter Miami have surrendered their 2024 Supporters’ Shield crown, which they won in record-breaking style last season, Messi has helped guide them back into playoff contention. The 2025 Shield has instead been clinched by Philadelphia Union, who have had the advantage of playing fewer games across all competitions.
Inter Miami head coach Javier Mascherano, who dismissed recent rumors of a rift between himself and Messi, praised his former Argentina teammate after the win:
“He gave us the possibility of opening the score and then securing the result… He keeps showing the ability he has and, more than anything, the ambition and desire to go for more.”
Supporting Cast Steps Up
Messi wasn’t the only Argentine to shine against New England. Winger Tadeo Allende scored a brace, benefiting directly from Messi’s creativity.
“This is routine for him,” Allende said. “If he doesn’t punish you with goals, he punishes you with assists.”
MVP History in the Making?
Messi remains in the running to become the first player in MLS history to win back-to-back MVP awards, following his record-setting debut campaign in 2024. His consistency at age 38 has only added to his legend, with both fans and pundits marveling at how he continues to dominate.
What’s Next for Inter Miami?
Inter Miami return to action next Saturday with a home fixture against Atlanta United, though Messi is expected to miss that match after being called up to Argentina’s squad for a friendly against Venezuela at Hard Rock Stadium on October 10.
The Herons will then wrap up their regular season away to Nashville SC, where Sam Surridge is currently vying with Messi for the MLS Golden Boot.
Veteran midfielder Sergio Busquets, who has announced he will retire at the end of the season, hopes to finish his storied career with MLS Cup glory, which would be a historic first for Inter Miami.
