Lionel Messi: A Phenomenal Start to 2025
Inter Miami star Lionel Messi has taken Major League Soccer (MLS) by storm in the first three games of 2025, scoring or creating four goals, including a stunning half-volley against Sporting Kansas City. At the age of 37, Messi’s early exploits in his 21st professional season have left little doubt: the GOAT is still as dominant as ever. Whether in sub-zero temperatures in Kansas City or at home in South Florida, Messi has been an unstoppable force, weaving through defenders, delivering precise passes, and finding the back of the net with both feet.
Fresh Legs and Small Sample Size
While Messi’s performance is undoubtedly impressive, it’s important to note that there are caveats. It’s still early in the season, and his legs are fresher than they will be in the fall. Additionally, the sample size for his 2025 performance is small. Two of his three games have been against Sporting Kansas City, a team that has shown some significant defensive weaknesses. In the Champions Cup tie, Sporting KC left Messi unmarked at the top of the box, allowing him to line up a half-volley that resulted in a goal. Their third goal, conceded to Luis Suárez, was a result of a comical sliced clearance and a ghosted header. Despite these flaws, Inter Miami won the two-leg knockout tie 4-1 with ease, advancing to face Jamaican club Cavalier in the Round of 16.
Dominating Despite Challenges
On Saturday, New York City FC also struggled to contain Messi. Just five minutes into the game, Messi capitalized on a slight turn of a defender’s head and a momentary lapse in concentration. He sprinted behind the defender, took a pass from Jordi Alba in stride, and delivered his first assist of the campaign. Inter Miami’s game against NYCFC was particularly challenging, as they played most of the match with 10 men after Tomás Avilés was sent off in the 23rd minute. Despite the numerical disadvantage, NYCFC failed to secure a comfortable victory. In the 100th minute, Messi’s brilliance shone through as he drove into a pocket of space and continued to dominate the game.
Playing with an Edge
Messi’s edge has not diminished; he played with the same intensity that marked his performances in Qatar and throughout his illustrious career. This intensity was evident in his actions, such as earning a yellow card for going at a referee and a fine for grabbing the neck of an NYCFC assistant coach. These incidents highlight his competitive spirit and determination, traits that have been integral to his success. In 2024, Messi won MVP despite missing half the MLS season. If he maintains his health and manages to keep his schedule under control in 2025, he has the potential to obliterate all sorts of league records.
A Bright Future Ahead
By the end of the 2025 season, Messi will be just six months away from a potential sixth World Cup. While he has not yet committed to playing through 2026, his current form suggests that he will be more than capable of participating if he chooses to do so. His performance in the early part of 2025 has been nothing short of spectacular, and if it continues, he could cement his legacy as not just one of the greatest players of all time, but also as a dominant force in the history of MLS.
Conclusion
Lionel Messi’s start to the 2025 season with Inter Miami has been nothing short of phenomenal. Despite the small sample size and the freshness of his legs, his impact on the field has been undeniable. Whether it’s his ability to find the back of the net or his flair for creating opportunities, Messi’s early exploits have left fans and critics alike in awe. As the season progresses, the true test of his capabilities will unfold, but for now, his performance has reinforced his status as one of the greatest players in the history of the sport.
