Messi Reaches 40+ Combined MLS Goal Contributions

Lionel Messi set up three goals in Inter Miami’s 4-1 win over the New England Revolution, bringing his 2025 MLS regular-season totals to about 24 goals and 17 assists (41 combined) and making him only the second player in league history to reach at least 40 combined goals and assists in a single campaign, behind Carlos Vela’s 49 in 2019. The display also pushed Messi to 100 direct goal contributions for Inter Miami (66 goals, 34 assists) in 80 appearances and leaves him roughly five assists shy of 400 career assists. Inter Miami has secured a playoff berth with two regular-season games remaining and is shifting focus to the MLS Cup after a Leagues Cup exit. Head coach Javier Mascherano praised Messi’s decisive influence, and his link-ups with teammates such as Jordi Alba and Tadeo Allende were central to the victory; the club also honored veteran Sergio Busquets during the match. Messi remains a frontrunner for a second straight MLS MVP and could still challenge Vela’s single-season record with remaining matches while building momentum ahead of the 2026 World Cup.