Messi and Co. in the Running for MLS MVP Award
The 2024 MLS season has reached its climax, and the league has announced the nominees for the most prestigious individual awards. Among those in the running for the Most Valuable Player (MVP) award are none other than global superstar Lionel Messi, as well as Inter Miami CF teammates Luis Suárez, Cucho Hernández, Evander, and Christian Benteke. But who deserves the top prize?
Each of these stars has made a significant impact on their respective teams, with Messi and Suárez leading the way for Inter Miami. According to official league statistics, Messi contributed 20 goals and 16 assists in just 19 games, cementing his status as a leading candidate for the award. Suárez, on the other hand, recorded 20 goals and nine assists in 27 games, and is also in the running for Newcomer of the Year.
But it’s not just stats that matter when evaluating the MVP. Inter Miami’s new signing Jordi Alba believes Messi deserves the award, citing his work rate and intensity on the pitch. "Leo is the best player in the world, and he deserves all the awards they can give him," Alba said. "If he doesn’t win it, it’s not up to us, it’s up to the people who vote."
Other notable nominees for individual awards include Wilfried Nancy (Columbus Crew) for Sigi Schmid MLS Coach of the Year, and Dénis Bouanga, who tied Messi and Suárez for second place on the Golden Boot rankings.
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