Lionel Messi might not be in the same league as Cristiano Ronaldo anymore, but he is still battling the Portuguese star in the record books. On Saturday, the 38-year-old Messi scored his sixth brace in seven games for Inter Miami as they beat the New York Red Bulls 5–1,

The world’s greatest players are usually surrounded by stellar supporting casts. Lionel Messi has had his fair share. Now another Argentine mate will suit up for MLS’s Inter Miami.

Inter Miami, who are aiming to win their maiden MLS Cup title, are also prioritising bagging the Leagues Cup this year, a title the club won in 2023 soon after Lionel Messi signed for the Herons. The World Cup-winning Argentina captain starred with a brace on Saturday as the David Beckham-owned side beat New York Red Bulls 5-1 in a MLS clash away from home.

Messi could be heading into one of the most intense stretches of his career. During the MLS season, Inter Miami also played four matches in the Club World Cup. After their run ended in the Round of 16, they were back in MLS action just a week later. And soon, the League Cup kicks off.

Rodrigo De Paul will reportedly first join on loan this summer as the Herons add a major reinforcement to the midfield.

David Beckham has delivered an update on Inter Miami’s new stadium, but questions continue to be asked of whether Lionel Messi will play there.

Inter Miami has suffered its first MLS loss since May as FC Cincinnati defeated the Herons 3-0 at the TQL Stadium. Javier Mascherano's team has gone 12 MLS games without a clean sheet. Lionel Messi did not score for Inter Miami for the first time after six straight games with goals in the MLS.