Lionel Messi continues to assert his extraordinary presence in Major League Soccer as the 2025 season progresses. Despite recently turning 38, the Inter Miami CF captain is showcasing remarkable form, leading the league in average match ratings and reinforcing his status through outstanding performances.
Since joining MLS in 2023, Messi has been instrumental in Inter Miami’s success, helping secure the 2023 Leagues Cup and the 2024 Supporters’ Shield titles. His remarkable contributions earned him the 2024 MLS Most Valuable Player award, with 20 goals and 16 assists over just 19 league matches. This season, Messi is once again proving why he remains one of the most influential players on the pitch.
Messi’s Superior Impact Demonstrated Through Match Ratings
While not currently leading MLS in total goal contributions—Anders Dreyer has 23 compared to Messi’s 19—the Inter Miami icon stands out in overall performance measures. According to Sofascore, Messi has the highest Average Match Rating in MLS for 2025, achieving an impressive 8.32 out of 10. This rating places him ahead of all other players in the league and highlights his consistent influence each game.
Only two other players have surpassed an average match rating of 8.00 this season: Carles Gil of the New England Revolution with 8.02 and Evander from FC Cincinnati with 8.01. This demonstrates Messi’s exceptional ability to maintain top-level performance against strong competition across the league.
Current Leaders in MLS Average Match Ratings
The top ten players based on their average match rating (via Sofascore) exemplify the high level of talent competing in MLS this year:
- Lionel Messi (Forward, Inter Miami): 8.32
- Carles Gil (Midfielder, New England Revolution): 8.02
- Evander (Midfielder, FC Cincinnati): 8.01
- Anders Dreyer (Forward, San Diego FC): 7.91
- Cristian Espinoza (Midfielder, San Jose Earthquakes): 7.66
- Kai Wagner (Defender, Philadelphia Union): 7.62
- Martin Ojeda (Midfielder, Orlando City): 7.60
- Jack McGlynn (Midfielder, Houston Dynamo): 7.60
- Albert Rusnak (Midfielder, Seattle Sounders): 7.57
- Cristian Roldan (Midfielder, Seattle Sounders): 7.57
Messi’s recent performances have been extraordinary, with his last three matches earning him ratings exceeding 9.6. Notably, on May 31, he achieved a perfect 10/10 rating during a 5-1 victory over Columbus Crew SC, contributing two goals and two assists in that game alone. This level of dominance is rare and emphasizes how critical Messi remains to Inter Miami’s ambitions.
Comparing Messi’s Present Form to Past Seasons
Messi’s current average match rating of 8.32 in 2025 surpasses his 2024 figure of 8.23, when he was recognized as the league’s MVP. His ability to sustain and even improve his performances speaks to his commitment and physical condition despite his age. Historically, his highest rating dates back to the 2018-19 season with FC Barcelona, where he achieved an 8.52 average and secured the Ballon d’Or, highlighting a consistent standard of excellence throughout his career.
After a tough exit in the Round of 16 at the FIFA Club World Cup against Paris Saint-Germain, Messi and Inter Miami responded emphatically by defeating CF Montreal 4-1 at Stade Saputo. In that match, Messi’s two solo goals and one assist stood out as a statement of his renewed vigor for the 2025 MLS season.
Although there is stiff competition for awards this year, Messi’s average match ratings provide undeniable proof of his ongoing dominance and influence in the league. This statistical edge reinforces his role as the driving force behind Miami’s push to secure their first MLS Cup.
As the season advances, Messi’s performances will be crucial in shaping the outcome of the championship race and determining whether he can repeat as the league’s Most Valuable Player. His sustained excellence, reflected in his MLS dominance stats, ensures that fans and analysts alike remain captivated by his extraordinary career journey in American soccer.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Is Lionel Messi a billionaire?
A. By 2024, Lionel Messi’s net worth is estimated to be between $650 million and $800 million. This makes him among the wealthiest and highest-earning athletes globally. He earns a lot from various sources, adding to his total wealth.