Lionel Messi eyes historic third straight MLS MVP award

Lionel Messi is once again in the spotlight after being named among the finalists for the 2026 Major League Soccer (MLS) Most Valuable Player award, putting the Argentine football legend within reach of an unprecedented third consecutive honour.

The Inter Miami captain has enjoyed another outstanding campaign, continuing to demonstrate his influence and exceptional goal-scoring ability at the age of 39. After winning the prestigious award in 2024 and 2025, Messi now has an opportunity to make MLS history by becoming the first player to claim the MVP title three years in a row.

Messi previously became only the second footballer to win the MLS MVP award twice, joining Preki, who received the honour in 1997 and 2003.

His performances during the 2026 regular season have once again made him a leading contender. The Argentine superstar finished as the league’s top scorer with 26 goals in 31 appearances for Inter Miami, helping the club prepare for another title challenge.

Miami will also be aiming to defend their championship as the MLS playoffs begin next week, adding further significance to Messi’s individual achievement.

However, the competition for this year’s MVP award remains strong, with four other players joining the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner on the shortlist.

Germany’s Hany Mukhtar, representing Nashville SC, Brazilian midfielder Evander of FC Cincinnati and fellow Brazilian Guilherme of Houston Dynamo are among the contenders. Philadelphia Union’s teenage sensation Cavan Sullivan completes the five-player shortlist.

Sullivan, just 17, has attracted considerable attention with his impressive performances this season. The young American scored nine goals in 29 appearances and has emerged as one of the league’s most exciting prospects.

He has also been shortlisted for the Young Player of the Year award alongside New York Red Bulls’ Julian Hall and Adri Mehmeti.

While Messi’s experience and remarkable scoring record make him a strong contender, the final decision will determine whether he can achieve another historic milestone in his remarkable career.

A third consecutive MVP award would further strengthen Messi’s legacy in American football and underline his continued dominance in Major League Soccer.