Lionel Messi will be looking to break a set of MLS records having made an incredible start to his Inter Miami career.
In his first two games for Inter Miami after his sensational signing, Messi has scored three goals and given an assist.
On his debut, he bҽat Cruz Azul with a classic last-second free kicƙ, and in his team’s victory over Atlanta United, he scored twice.
Here are five records the 36-year-old will be aiming to shatter in the MLS season of 2023.
Most goals in a single season: 34
For Los Angeles FC in 2019, former Arsenal forward Carlos Vela scored an incredible 34 goals. After a successful start to his Inter-Miami career, Messi, who scored 16 league goals for Paris Saint-Germain last season, will have 34+ goals in his sights. On August 21, they take on Charlotte to kicƙ off their MLS season in 2023.
Most assists in a single season: 26
For the Tampa Bay Mutiny in 2020, former Colombian international Carlos Valderrama racked up an amazing 26 assists. Messi has already given Inter Miami one assist. Ahead of the upcoming MLS season, he will be aiming for the assist record in addition to the most goals in a single season.
Most goals from free-kicƙs: 13
Messi scored the first goal for Inter Miami with an incredible free ƙick. He will tie Sebastian Giovinco, who joined Toronto FC from Juventus in 2015, if he can score 13 free ƙicks in the MLS. In the course of his successful MLS career, he scored 13 free kicƙs.
Inter Miami all-time top goalscorer – 29
Only 27 goals separate Messi from setting the club’s all-time scoring mark. Gonzalo Higuain, a member of his own country, now holds the record with 29 goals. After leaving Juventus, he stayed with the team for three seasons.
Most wins in a row: 15
With Sergio Busquets joining his old Barcelona teammate at the Florida-based club, Inter Miami may be a force to be reckoned with in the MLS. Numerous other top athletes, including Jordi Alba and Sergio Ramos, have been connected to the organization.
With 15 victories, Los Angeles Galaxy has the longest winning run in the MLS. However, they might have that record in their sights when they launch their MLS campaign with the team David Beckham is building in Miami.
Which MLS records is Messi expected to set? Tell us what you believe.