Lionel Messi vowed to “come back stronger” next season with Inter Miami CF as he looks to build on a historic year that culminated in the 2024 Landon Donovan MLS MVP award.

The legendary Argentine No. 10 was crowned the league’s best player of 2024 on Friday after captaining the Herons to their first-ever Supporters’ Shield title and the MLS single-season points record (74). His 36 goal contributions (20g/16a), the fifth-highest single-season total in league history, came despite only playing in 19 matches (1,485 minutes) amid injuries and Copa América duty.

Messi received the award during a special ceremony at Chase Stadium, where IMCF’s academy players and MLS Commissioner Don Garber honored the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner and FIFA 2022 World Cup champion with the league’s top individual prize.

Messi saluted Miami’s academy youngsters in his first official statement as MLS MVP.
As successful as 2024 was for Messi and Miami, the iconic superstar admitted the club fell short of the ultimate goal of winning MLS Cup presented by Audi.

As successful as 2024 was for Messi and Miami, the iconic superstar admitted the club fell short of the ultimate goal of winning MLS Cup presented by Audi.

New head coach Javier Mascherano will lead Miami next season, reuniting Messi with a former Argentina and FC Barcelona teammate. Fellow Barça legends Sergio Busquets, Jordi Alba and Luis Suárez will also return to the Herons in 2025.

Messi closed his acceptance speech by urging Miami’s academy youngsters to strive for excellence as he and his fellow first-team superstars look to reach new heights next year.

“That’s what it’s all about, and especially now that you’re young. Fight for your dreams, work hard, and fight for what you want. In the end, sacrifice and effort are rewarded,” he said. “So, keep going this way, because the club continues to support you, as you are in a time of great growth, with many possibilities.

“I believe you’ve seen how much the academy has changed in this last year and a half. And don’t doubt that it will continue like this, and you’ll have all the opportunities to fight for your dreams. So, once again, thank you very much, and it’s an honor to be here with you. Thank you.”