Can Lionel Messi Break the Record for Most Goals in a Single MLS Season?

Lionel Messi is enjoying an outstanding run of form with Inter Miami and leads the MLS 2026 scoring charts with 23 goals. However, the Argentine still needs an extraordinary scoring streak to break the all-time record for most goals in a single regular season.

Lionel Messi Leads the MLS 2026 Scoring Charts

Lionel Messi continues to be the main attacking force for Inter Miami, which is looking to secure its place in the Major League Soccer playoffs.

The Argentine forward has scored 23 goals in 25 regular-season appearances, putting him at the top of the league's scoring charts.

His most recent performance proved decisive in a 4-0 victory over D.C. United, where he scored twice and confirmed his excellent form.

In addition to his goals, Messi has registered 13 assists, meaning he has been directly involved in 36 of his team's goals.

The Argentine leads Petar Musa of FC Dallas, who has scored 19 goals, while Milan Iloski of Philadelphia Union and Brian White of Vancouver Whitecaps have 17 each.

How Many Goals Does Messi Need to Break the MLS Record?

The record for most goals in a single MLS regular season belongs to Carlos Vela, who scored 34 goals for Los Angeles FC in 2019.

With 23 goals so far, Lionel Messi needs another 11 to equal that total and 12 to establish a new all-time record of 35.

The challenge is significant, especially since Inter Miami has already played 28 of its 34 regular-season matches, leaving just six games remaining.

This means Messi would need to average two goals per game over the remainder of the campaign to surpass the Mexican forward's record.

Although it appears to be a difficult task, his goalscoring ability keeps the possibility mathematically alive.

Inter Miami Eyes Playoff Berth With Messi Leading the Way

The team coached by Cristian González sits third in the Eastern Conference with 49 points after 28 matches.

The Herons have scored 68 goals, the highest total in the league, with Messi, Luis Suárez, and Germán Berterame serving as their main attacking threats.

Their next match will be against New York City FC on Wednesday, October 14, at 7:30 PM ET.

A victory would secure Inter Miami's place in the playoffs, while Messi will have another opportunity to move closer to a historic milestone.