Messi Set to Boost Miami’s MLS Title Hopes with Golden Boot Ambition
Javier Mascherano, the head coach of Inter Miami, announced that Lionel Messi will participate in the final match of the 2025 MLS regular season against Nashville SC this Saturday. This match is crucial for Messi as he aims to secure the coveted Golden Boot award.
Messi’s Recent Performances
Messi recently played for Argentina in a friendly match against Puerto Rico. This performance took place at Chase Stadium, and he returned to training with Inter Miami shortly after.
Mascherano confirmed, “Yesterday they [Messi and Rodrigo De Paul] trained with us, they did a good part of it. Today they will train with us completely.” He emphasized that Messi’s light international workload should not impede his performance.
Injury Updates and Team Availability
- David Ruiz and Allen Obando are the only players ruled out due to injuries.
- Almost the entire squad is available for the weekend clash.
Golden Boot Ambitions
The upcoming match presents Messi with the opportunity to secure the 2025 MLS Golden Boot. He currently leads the league with 26 goals, closely followed by Denis Bouanga from Los Angeles FC, who has scored 24 goals.
This match is pivotal not just for individual accolades but also for securing home-field advantage in the playoffs. Despite showcasing remarkable skill, Messi has yet to win the Golden Boot since joining MLS in the summer of 2023.
Messi’s Overall Impact
In addition to leading in goals, Messi also tops the assists leaderboard for the 2025 season with 18 assists, which enhances his candidacy for the league’s Most Valuable Player (MVP) award.
Mascherano expressed unwavering confidence in Messi’s qualifications, stating, “There is no type of doubt that Messi is the MVP of the league.” If successful, Messi could become the first player to win the MLS MVP twice in consecutive years, having won the award in 2024.
Looking Ahead
Inter Miami has secured a place in the league playoffs but will determine its Round One opponent following the conclusion of the regular season on Saturday night. The excitement around Messi’s performance only amplifies as fans anticipate the impact he will continue to have on the team.
