“He is the best player in the world” - Jordi Alba backs Lionel Messi to win 2024 MLS MVP award 

Jordi Alba has picked his Inter Miami teammate Lionel Messi as the MLS MVP this season. The award is given to the most valuable player of the Major League Soccer.

Speaking to the reporters ahead of Inter Miami's MLS Cup clash with Atlanta United on Friday (October 25), Alba claimed that Messi deserves to win all the individual awards. The Spaniard believes that the Argentine is still the best player in the world and will remain that way until he retires. He said (via goal.com):

"Every time you ask me, I think that he deserves all the awards that they can give him. I think he is the best player in the world, he is by far above the rest and that will be the case until he retires. I'm sure he will win it, and if not, it will be a decision made by no-one but the people who voted."

Lionel Messi played a key role in helping Inter Miami win the MLS Supporters' Shield this season. He has scored 20 goals and assisted 10 times in the league despite playing just 19 matches.

"Important for the city, and for the country" - Alba on Lionel Messi's Inter Miami qualifying for FIFA Club World Cup

Lionel Messi's Inter Miami were added to the FIFA Club World Cup last week after they were selected as the host club. FIFA president Gianni Infantino has confirmed that the place was handed to the MLS Supporters' Shield winners.

Jordi Alba was quizzed about the qualification and he stated that it is important for the club and the country. He added that it would be a good opportunity for the players:

"I think it's important for Inter Miami, for the city, and for the country in general, I think it's important to measure ourselves against these types of teams. Luckily, I've already played against them, but most of the squad have not had the opportunity to play against the type of players from these teams. It will be difficult, but I think it's a great success to be there and to try to compete at our maximum as always.

"For the club, and above all for the players and for David who has been here a long time and has been working for a long time, I think that it is important to see the growth of the club, and we'll try to leave as big a legacy as possible."

Lionel Messi and co are in action on Friday night in the MLS Cup. They are at home to Atlanta United and will be keen on making it to the next round.