2026 could be Messi’s definitive MLS year

Since arriving in the United States, Lionel Messi hasn’t just transformed Inter Miami — he’s reshaped the global perception of Major League Soccer. Now, with a new season underway and according to statistics compiled by international sports outlets, the Argentine has five historic records within reach that could make 2026 the most dominant campaign ever seen in the league.

First player to win three MLS MVP awards

Messi has already won the MVP award in two consecutive seasons, something no player had ever achieved before. He’s tied with Preki as the all-time leader with two trophies, but if he repeats in 2026 he’ll become the only three-time MVP — and the first ever to do it in three straight years.

This record isn’t just about goals; it’s about total impact. With the Argentine as the creative and scoring engine, the narrative seems obvious: if Inter Miami contends for the title, his name will be at the center of the conversation.

Become the highest-scoring Argentine in league history

Right now, the record belongs to Diego Valeri with 93 goals. Messi begins 2026 with 57, meaning he needs 36 more to match it.

That sounds like a lot… until you remember his scoring average since arriving in MLS is straight out of a video game. If he maintains his pace and avoids injuries, he might not only reach it — he could surpass it before the playoffs.

First Inter Miami player to reach 100 G/A

Messi has 50 goals and 28 assists in league play — 78 direct contributions. He needs just 22 more to become the first player in club history to hit 100 combined goals and assists in regular-season MLS action.

The number wouldn’t just be historic for the franchise; it would confirm that the Messi era isn’t only about hype — it’s statistically dominant.

Win the Golden Boot in back-to-back seasons

No player in MLS history has ever won the top scorer title two years in a row. Messi netted 29 goals last season, and if he repeats, he’ll break one of the league’s most curious barriers.

Several strikers have won two Golden Boots… just never consecutively. Logic says it’s only a matter of time before someone does it. Reality says Messi could do it right now.

Most hat-tricks in MLS history

The current record belongs to Josef Martínez with seven hat-tricks. Messi has two and needs five more to tie.

It’s the toughest target on the list — but not impossible. Back in 2018, while playing for Barcelona, he scored five hat-tricks in a single calendar year. If he rediscovers that explosive form, the mark could start shaking.

Messi doesn’t just compete… he redefines MLS

At 38, Messi doesn’t look like he’s winding down his career — he looks like he’s writing a brand-new chapter. With the pressure of defending the title and new attacking reinforcements around him, the Argentine has the perfect stage for another historic season.

Records like the single-season goal contribution mark — currently held by Carlos Vela with 49 — are also on the radar if he maintains his average.

If Messi has shown anything throughout his career, it’s that records aren’t goals… they’re consequences.

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