Lionel Messi enters the 2026 Major League Soccer season aiming to shatter multiple records, further cementing his impact as Inter Miami’s captain. After two standout years in the United States, the Argentine star is on the verge of setting new MLS milestones that highlight his extraordinary contributions.
Having already secured consecutive Most Valuable Player awards and claimed last season’s Golden Boot, Messi’s focus now turns to surpassing key career achievements in MLS. His scoring prowess and playmaking continue to position him among the league’s all-time greats.
Chasing the Top Argentine Scorer Title
One of Messi’s most tangible goals is to become the highest-scoring Argentine in MLS history. The current record of 93 goals in league play is held by Diego Valeri, who made 288 appearances. Messi has tallied 57 goals so far and would need 36 additional strikes to eclipse Valeri’s total. Given his consistent scoring since joining Inter Miami, this target remains feasible within the new season.
Approaching an Inter Miami Goal Involvement Milestone
In addition to personal scoring records, Messi is nearing a landmark for contributions at his club. He has already produced 50 goals and 28 assists in MLS matches for Inter Miami, totaling 78 goal involvements. Adding 22 more combined goals and assists would mark 100 goal contributions, a first in the club’s history. As a key figure in the team’s offense, Messi could reach this milestone before the campaign concludes.
Making History with Consecutive MVP and Golden Boot Wins
Messi’s individual honors also stand to grow this season. He is currently tied with Preki as a two-time winner of the MLS Most Valuable Player award, having earned it in back-to-back years. Securing a third MVP title would establish Messi as the only player in league history to win the award three times consecutively.
Additionally, retaining the Golden Boot would set a new standard, as no player has ever achieved that feat in successive seasons. While multiple players like Jeff Cunningham, Bradley Wright-Phillips, Chris Wondolowski, Preki, and Taylor Twellman have won the award multiple times, none have done so in back-to-back years. Messi, who led the league last season with 29 goals, could redefine this milestone with another dominant scoring performance.
The Challenge of the Hat-Trick Record
Although the all-time MLS hat-trick record remains a tougher challenge, it is still within Messi’s sights. He has recorded two hat-tricks in league play so far, a figure five short of Josef MartÃnez’s seven. Maintaining a strong scoring streak throughout the season could bring this record closer within reach.
As Lionel Messi aims to break these major MLS records in 2026, his impact on the league and on Inter Miami remains unparalleled. Fans and analysts alike will watch closely to see if he can extend his legacy by rewriting the record books once more.
