Messi named Finalist for MLS Newcomer of the Year Award

Lionel Messi, the Argentine football icon, has been nominated as one of the three finalists for Major League Soccer's (MLS) Newcomer of the Year award. Despite playing only six league matches for Inter Miami, Messi made a significant impact on the MLS.

Messi made his debut for Inter Miami on August 26, coming on as a second-half substitute and scoring a goal in their 2-0 victory over New York Red Bulls, ending an 11-match winless streak. He also played a key role in leading Miami to the Leagues Cup title during a tournament featuring MLS and Mexican league teams in August.

However, Messi's late-season leg injury prevented him from helping Miami secure a spot in the MLS playoffs, leaving the team at the bottom of the league standings.

Since joining Inter Miami in July, Messi has proven to be a financial success for MLS. His presence has boosted jersey sales, increased MLS season pass viewing subscriptions, and driven ticket sales wherever Miami played.

Messi's fellow contenders for the newcomer award are Greek forward Giorgos Giakoumakis from Atlanta United and German midfielder Eduard Lowen from St. Louis City. Although Messi was also nominated for the MLS Most Valuable Player award, he did not make it to the final three in that category.

The finalists for the MLS Most Valuable Player award include MLS Golden Boot winner Denis Bouanga from Los Angeles FC, Argentine midfielder Luciano Acosta from regular-season wins leader FC Cincinnati, and another Argentine standout, Thiago Almada from Atlanta.

Messi's presence in MLS has undoubtedly left a significant mark on the league, despite his limited appearances in the 2023 season.

SportsLigue