“I’m not sure why we expected any less from the guy" - Pundit reacts as Lionel Messi breaks incredible MLS record

Pundit Kieran Gibbs has heaped praise on Inter Miami captain Lionel Messi after his record-breaking contribution against St. Louis City in his last MLS appearance. The 36-year-old scored in the 3-3 draw in his side's Chase Stadium as they avoided defeat on home soil.

Inter Miami sought to bounce back from a shock defeat to Atlanta United when they hosted St. Louis City. They only managed to avoid successive defeats thanks to an 85th-minute goal from Jordi Alba. Messi was on target in the game, just as he was in the defeat to Atlanta United, and his goal was record-breaking.

Lionel Messi became the fastest player in MLS history to reach 25 goal contributions in a single season, needing only 12 matches to do so. His effort in the first half of the game against St. Louis City was his 12th of the campaign, which has been hampered by injuries. Across competitions, he's scored 14 goals and provided 11 assists in 15 games.

Former Arsenal star Kieran Gibbs faced the Argentine forward on a number of occasions in his playing days, especially in the UEFA Champions League. He was a guest on the Inter Miami Weekly Show, where he hailed the former Barcelona man for his record-breaking contribution.

He said:

“I’m not sure why we expected any less from the guy. He really is that guy, he was born to break records, he set the standard for world football and it’s just amazing to have him here."

“How many moments has he given us in this short space of time of him being here. Priceless moments, what a player, it’s a joy to watch and talk about him every week.”

Messi broke the record, which was previously held by Mexican forward Carlos Vela, who started for LAFC during his time in the MLS. The Argentine great will not feature for his club in the coming weeks as he will be part of his country's squad at the Copa America.

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Lionel Messi admits MLS influence on his international future

Lionel Messi has admitted that his international future will be influenced by how he plays for Inter Miami in the MLS. The 36-year-old is currently with the remainder of the Argentina team in Florida as they prepare to commence their Copa America title defense.

Messi spoke with Infobae about the possibility of featuring in the next World Cup, having led Argentina to the title two years ago. He revealed that his age will be a huge determinant, and spoke about the level of competition in the MLS.

He said:

“Age is also a reality, even if it is a number, and then there are my (club) games. They’re not going to be the same as when I played in European competition, which were every three days; in the Champions League or league, either in France or Spain.”

The Argentina players and manager have pled with the former Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain man to remain in the squad until 2026. However, his mind is not made up. Lionel Messi will be 38 by the time the tournament comes round and may be unable to participate.