Messi Inter Miami Career Stats: Goals, Assists & Performances
Lionel Messi’s arrival in Major League Soccer (MLS) marked a historic turning point for American football. When the Argentine maestro signed with Inter Miami CF in July 2023, it wasn’t just a transfer—it was a moment that redefined the global perception of the league. From packed stadiums to international broadcasts and skyrocketing shirt sales, Messi’s influence went far beyond goals. However, his goal-scoring performance at Inter Miami also proved that even at 36, he remains one of the most dangerous forwards in world football.
In this article, we take a deep dive into Lionel Messi’s goals at Inter Miami, his overall stats, and how he has transformed the club and MLS.
The Transfer That Changed MLS Forever
In the summer of 2023, Lionel Messi shocked the footballing world by choosing to join Inter Miami over offers from Europe and the Saudi Pro League. Backed by co-owner David Beckham, Inter Miami offered Messi a unique project: not just a footballing challenge, but a long-term legacy in building the sport in the United States.
Messi’s deal included profit-sharing from Apple TV’s MLS Season Pass, a reported ownership stake in the club, and commercial incentives with Adidas—making it one of the most complex and innovative contracts in sports history.
Messi's Debut and Immediate Impact
Lionel Messi made his debut on July 21, 2023, in a Leagues Cup match against Cruz Azul. Coming on as a substitute, he scored a stunning last-minute free kick to win the match, instantly announcing his presence in the United States.
That goal wasn’t just a highlight—it was symbolic. Messi had arrived in America, and he was here to entertain.
Goal Scoring Stats: 2023 Season
During his first few months at Inter Miami, Messi participated in multiple competitions: the Leagues Cup, U.S. Open Cup, and the MLS regular season. His impact was felt across all formats.
Leagues Cup 2023:
• Matches Played: 7
• Goals Scored: 10
• Assists: 3
• Achievements: Golden Boot, Player of the Tournament
• Result: Inter Miami won their first-ever trophy
MLS 2023 (Regular Season):
• Matches Played: 6
• Goals Scored: 1
• Assists: 2
Note: Messi was unavailable for several MLS matches because of injuries and commitments with the Argentina national team.
U.S. Open Cup 2023:
• Matches Played: 2
• Goals: 0
• Assists: 1
Note: Inter Miami reached the final but lost to Houston Dynamo.
2024 Season: Full MLS Campaign
As the 2024 season kicked off, Messi began his first full season with Inter Miami, leading the attack alongside former Barcelona teammates Sergio Busquets, Jordi Alba, and new signings like Luis Suárez.
MLS 2024 (as of May):
• Matches Played: 12+
• Goals Scored: 11+
• Assists: 9+
• Hat-tricks: 1
• Free-Kick Goals: 3
Team Standing: Inter Miami currently sits at the top of the Eastern Conference table.
His combination play with Suárez and his unmatched vision has made Inter Miami one of the highest-scoring teams in the league. Not only has Messi scored, but he has also created chances, drawn defenders, and elevated the performance of the entire squad.
Style of Play and Role at Inter Miami
At Inter Miami, Messi operates in a slightly deeper role, often dropping into midfield to orchestrate play. With the physical demands of MLS and travel between coasts, the coaching staff has adjusted his workload and positioning to maximize his impact.
Despite the reduced intensity compared to La Liga or Ligue 1, Messi continues to shine due to his elite technique, intelligence, and ability to read the game. He regularly delivers key passes, long-range goals, and magical moments that draw global attention.
Record-Breaking Moments
Messi has already achieved several milestones with Inter Miami:
• Fastest player to reach 10 goals for the club
• Most goals in a single Leagues Cup campaign
• First Inter Miami player to score in four consecutive matches
• First Ballon d'Or winner to play in MLS
• Top-selling MLS jersey of all time
Messi’s arrival has dramatically boosted Inter Miami’s worldwide fan following and brought unprecedented global attention to Major League Soccer.
Off-the-Field Impact
While goals and assists can be measured, Messi’s off-the-field impact is just as significant.
1. Social Media Surge: After Messi's arrival, Inter Miami’s Instagram following skyrocketed from under 1 million to more than 15 million.
2. Ticket Sales: Every match featuring Messi has sold out, with ticket prices surging 500% in some stadiums.
3. Sponsorships and Revenue: MLS and Inter Miami have signed new global sponsors, and Apple’s MLS Season Pass subscriptions spiked after Messi’s arrival.
4. Youth Inspiration: Young American players now dream of playing alongside or against Lionel Messi, raising the league’s overall competitiveness and prestige.
Future Outlook
With the 2024 Copa América and 2026 FIFA World Cup approaching—both hosted in the U.S.—Messi’s stay in MLS is viewed as a strategic step toward expanding football’s popularity in North America.
He is expected to remain with Inter Miami through the 2025 season, possibly extending further depending on his fitness and ambitions.
Lionel Messi's Inter Miami Journey: From Debut to Goals & Milestones
Lionel Messi’s goal-scoring performance at Inter Miami is just one part of a much larger picture. From free-kick winners and hat-tricks to creating unforgettable moments, Messi has elevated MLS and Inter Miami to international relevance. His total goal tally continues to grow, and with each match, he adds another chapter to his legendary career.
More than just a footballer, Messi has become a bridge between global football and the American audience. His journey with Inter Miami proves that greatness transcends leagues, continents, and expectations.
As the goals keep coming, so too does the belief that Messi’s legacy is still being written—this time, in pink and black.
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