Lionel Messi is set to pursue more achievements in 2026. Last season, his team, Inter Miami, claimed its inaugural MLS Cup title and will be looking to defend it while striving for additional trophies in its first season at the newly established Miami Freedom Park.
More significantly, Messi will serve as captain for Argentina as they seek to retain their FIFA World Cup title in North America, aiming for a second trophy for himself and a fourth overall for his nation in what may be his last tournament.
As the 38-year-old continues to play for both club and country, ESPN will monitor his performance on a game-by-game basis, providing statistics and analyses each time he dons the Herons or Albiceleste kit.
Messi’s stats for 2026:
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Games played: 1
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Goals: 0
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Assists: 0
Feb. 21: LAFC 3-0 Inter Miami
Messi and Miami aimed for a strong start to 2026, but the home team spoiled the defending champions’ opener at the LA Coliseum. In front of a sold-out crowd of 75,673 — the second-highest attendance in MLS history — Miami struggled, while LAFC’s Denis Bouanga contributed with a goal and an assist in a commanding victory.
However, the main focus after the match was an incident involving Messi. Reports circulated suggesting he may have entered the officials’ locker room without permission, as video surfaced showing him near that area. It was later clarified that no league rules were broken, and Messi was found to have acted properly. Miami will now prepare for their home opener against fellow Florida team Orlando City.