Overview
- Lionel Messi has been named as a finalist for the MLS Newcomer of the Year award, alongside Atalanta United's Giorgos Giakoumakis, and St Louis City midfielder Eduard Lowen.
- After joining Inter Miami, Messi played only six league games, scoring 11 goals and contributing to the victory of the inaugural Leagues Cup.
- The Argentinian footballer is also the favourite for the Ballon d'Or award, following his efforts in leading Argentina to win the 2022 World Cup.
- Messi debuted for Inter Miami on July 21 at the Leagues Cup, made his MLS debut on August 26, and managed one goal and two assists in six MLS matches.
- Despite his limited play in the MLS, Messi made significant contributions off the pitch, boosting ticket and merchandising sales, and heightening the league's credibility internationally.