Lionel Messi and Luis Suarez named in 5-man shortlist for MLS MVP award

Lionel Messi and Luis Suarez have been included in the shortlist for the MLS MVP award. The Inter Miami duo are joined by D.C. United striker Christian Benteke, Columbus Crew forward Cucho Hernandez, and Portland Timber's Evander in the nominee list.

The Argentinian, understandably, is the favorite for the award at the moment. Messi has transformed the Herons' fortunes since arriving at the Chase Stadium in the summer of 2023.

The diminutive magician marked his arrival in the US by helping the Florida-based club to the Leagues Cup last season. He has hit a higher gear this campaign, despite missing quite a few games due to injuries and international commitments.

The 37-year-old won his second Copa America title this summer with La Albiceleste but picked up an injury in the final. He subsequently missed eight games for Inter Miami in the Leagues Cup and the MLS, before making his return to the pitch in September.

Since then, Lionel Messi has been in glorious form for the Herons. He helped them finish at the top of the league table, and win the Supporters' Shield. The Argentinian ensured that the team created a new record in the MLS by registering 74 points.

Messi has registered 22 goals and 12 assists from 22 games across competitions this season, and is now the Florida-based club's record goalscorer with 33 goals from 36 games. Meanwhile, Luis Suarez has also been decisive for Gerardo Martino's team, scoring 24 goals and setting up 12 more from 34 games.

How many trophies has Lionel Messi won in his career?

Lionel Messi guided Inter Miami to the Supporters' Shield this season

Lionel Messi picked up the 46th trophy of his career after lifting the Supporters' Shield with Inter Miami this month. The Argentinian arrived in Florida last year as the footballer with the joint most trophies - 43 - alongside Dani Alves.

The indomitable magician has since surpassed his former teammate and is now the most decorated footballer in the history of the game. Lionel Messi has a record eight Ballon d'Or titles to his name, although he is not in the shortlist for the coveted award this year.

The Argentinian has also won the European Golden Shoe a record six times. However, lifting the 2022 FIFA World Cup might be the biggest achievement of his career. That feat helped him realize a lifelong dream and arguably cemented his position as the G.O.A.T ahead of his rival Cristiano Ronaldo.