Lionel Messi's MLS Dominance Raises Ballon d'Or Questions
Lionel Messi's recent performances have reignited the debate: can he win another Ballon d'Or? While his current form with Inter Miami is impressive, it doesn't count towards this season's award, and Major League Soccer (MLS) is not considered one of the top five leagues globally. However, at 39 years old, Messi is decimating his opponents, showcasing his enduring talent after leading Argentina to a World Cup Final.
On Saturday, Messi reminded fans of his magic by scoring two stunning goals, prompting the question of whether it would be unreasonable for him to be a contender for the prestigious award. Currently, Harry Kane is the favorite, and rightly so, given his outstanding performances. Other players like Lamine Yamal, Rodri, and Kylian Mbappe also have strong cases for the award based on their achievements this season.
Yet, Messi's argument for another Ballon d'Or is compelling. Criticism of MLS often arises in discussions about the award, but such critiques seem increasingly unjustified as the league grows in quality and competitiveness. If Messi were performing these feats in Argentina's Primera Division, many would overlook the league's status and celebrate his contributions instead.
In 2023, Messi has scored 29 goals and provided 15 assists in just 32 appearances for Inter Miami, a remarkable feat at any age. He has only been absent from the scoresheet in six matches, four of which occurred before May. With three games remaining in the season, he is on track to challenge the MLS single-season goals record of 34.
Evaluating Messi's impact beyond MLS
To assess Messi's contributions fairly, one could argue that even if he had played in a more prestigious league, his numbers would still be impressive. If he had scored 15-20 goals and provided 10 assists while playing for a top European club, combined with a stellar World Cup performance, he could easily be in the running for the award.
Messi's World Cup journey was significant, as he scored or assisted in Argentina's first seven matches, contributing to their success despite a final loss to Spain. His eight goals and four assists during the tournament highlight his pivotal role in Argentina's campaign.
When the Noise Dies Down
However, the competition is fierce. If Kane reaches the Champions League Final or if Rodri or Ousmane Dembele had more consistent seasons, they could easily overshadow Messi's achievements. While Messi's past accolades and emotional narratives may sway some voters, the reality is that he faces stiff competition this year.
Ultimately, while it seems unlikely that Messi will secure another Ballon d'Or, it wouldn't be a complete surprise. His legacy and the sentiment surrounding his career could play a role in the voting process, especially given the emotional weight of his World Cup victory and personal challenges this year. The debate continues, but one thing is clear: Messi's impact on the pitch remains undeniable, and his performances in MLS are a testament to his enduring greatness.
