Just a week into the 2025 season, Lionel Messi is already making a statement in Major League Soccer. The 37-year-old has played three official games against MLS foes this year, scoring or creating four goals in the process. In his most recent game against Sporting Kansas City, Messi showed his class, scoring a banger and assisting on a goal in the 100th minute. Despite his opponent's mistakes, it was clear that Messi was the one in control, wriggling out of throngs of defenders and finding the back of the net with both feet.
In his other games, against Inter Miami and New York City FC, Messi has also shown his dominance. Against Inter Miami, he scored a goal and an assist in the two-leg knockout tie, helping his team advance to the Round of 16. Against NYCFC, he showed his edge, earning a yellow card for going at a ref and grabbing the neck of an assistant coach.
Despite the caveats that come with February in MLS, it's clear that Messi's legs are fresh and he's still got it at the age of 37. His 2025 sample size is still small, but he's already making a case for being the best player in the league. In 2024, he won MVP despite missing half the MLS season. If his health holds up and his schedule stays manageable in 2025, he could obliterate all sorts of league records. And by the end of it, he'll be six months away from a sixth World Cup. He has not yet committed to playing through 2026, but if he's playing like this, he'll be plenty capable.
The impact that Messi is having on the league is undeniable. His presence on the field is a game-changer for any team he plays for, and his ability to score goals and create chances is a sight to behold. It's clear that he is still one of the best players in the world, and his performance this season is a testament to his incredible talent and dedication to the sport.
As the season progresses, it will be interesting to see how Messi continues to perform and whether he can maintain his dominance throughout the year. But one thing is for sure: he is already making a statement in 2025 Major League Soccer, and he is sure to be a force to be reckoned with for years to come.
