For much of Messi’s career, he carried the burden of matching Maradona’s triumphs. It wasn’t until he led Argentina to conquer its third World Cup in 2022—the country’s first since ’86—that he was finally able to escape Maradona’s shadow in his home country.

The Inter Miami star has been in brilliant form in 2025, and will likely become the first player to win the award in consecutive seasons.

Messi predicts big things for USA soccer as major tournament nears originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here. arrived at Inter Miami in July 2023 after spending two seasons with PSG following his emotional departure from Barcelona in 2021.

Lionel Messi has agreed to a new contract with Inter Miami, ensuring he stays with the team as they move to a new stadium next year.

Jimmy Conrad, Tony Meola & Charlie Davies discuss Lionel Messi's decision to sign a new deal with Inter Miami till 2028 to help them open their new stadium. In a recent interview

Inter Miami forward Lionel Messi has challenged Major League Soccer to relax its rules on spending in pursuit of wider growth across the league.

Lionel Messi shines in Inter Miami's 3-1 win over Nashville SC, opening the Major League Soccer playoffs. He scores twice and assists Tadeo Allende's goal.

Inter Miami have agreed to extend the contract of a player who will continue to be Lionel Messi’s teammate in Major League Soccer.