Seven Records Lionel Messi Can Still Break Before 2028

Even after two decades of magic, Lionel Messi continues to stretch the limits of what a footballer can achieve. After breaking the record of the most assists in football history, the Argentine superstar still has time — and form — to chase down seven monumental records that would elevate his legend into an entirely new tier.

1. First captain to win two World Cups

Messi already delivered Argentina’s long-awaited World Cup in Qatar. In 2026, he could become the first captain in history to lift two World Cups wearing the armband — something even Pelé or Maradona never did.

2. First captain with four straight major international titles

Argentina have won Copa América 2021, Finalissima 2022, and the World Cup 2022.
If they win Copa América 2025, Messi becomes the first captain ever to claim four consecutive major tournaments.

3. Most free-kick goals ever

Messi currently sits at 69, trailing only Marcelinho (78), Roberto Dinamite (75), and Juninho Pernambucano (72).
Ten more, and the record becomes his.

4. First player with three MLS Golden Boots

After winning the 2025 MLS Golden Boot with 29 goals, Messi could go where no one has gone: three Golden Boots in MLS. No player has ever even won back-to-back scoring titles.

5. Most goals in a single MLS season

Carlos Vela set the bar at 34 goals in 2019. Messi finished only five short last year — and if he stays healthy, that record is vulnerable.

6. Most goal contributions in one MLS season

Messi already obliterated the combined season + playoffs record with 60 goal involvements.
Next target: Vela’s regular-season mark of 49. Messi posted 48. He needs just two more next year to rewrite the book again.

7. Most assists in an MLS season

Carlos Valderrama’s mythical 26-assist season in 2000 remains untouched.
Messi recorded nine assists in his last six appearances alone — enough to dream of surpassing another MLS legend.

A footballer with nothing left to prove somehow still has everything left to conquer. If Messi plays through 2028, the record books are going to need yet another rewrite — one more chapter in a career that refuses to slow down.