Inter Miami's celebrated Argentine forward Lionel Messi has yet another accolade to add to his brimming trophy cabinet, becoming the first ever to receive the MARCA America Award on Thursday, as reported by WSVN. This accolade, bestowed by the Spanish media entity MARCA, acknowledges the soccer legend's unparalleled career achievements, which include a staggering 46 trophies from team efforts and upwards of 56 personal honors.
"It has been quite the journey," Messi articulated during a Q&A session at Chase Stadium, reminiscing over a career filled with both transcendent triumphs and trying times, with Messi suggesting that it wasn't always a walk in the park, because as the man acknowledges, "In 20 years not everything is beautiful. You cannot win all the time," an excerpt from Arab News echoes. The Argentine virtuoso holds the 2022 World Cup victory with his national team in particularly high regard, a feat that unequivocally solidified his standing amongst the football pantheon.
Despite joining Inter Miami just over a year ago in July 2023, Messi has made his imprint on the MLS club, contributing significantly to their securing of the 2024 Supporters Shield, as he netted an impressive 17 goals and supplied 15 assists in a season limited by an ankle injury and national duties.
Messi still harbors ambitions of further glory, stressing his perpetuating passion for the sport, he maintains, "I still have a deep love for this sport and I will continue to aspire to win more titles," as per his conversation with WSVN. The fervor for competition evident, he anticipates participating in the next World Cup cycle with Argentina, reveling in his recent scoring streak that's seen him captivate in a World Cup qualifier earlier this week and with Inter Miami’s aspirations riding high, he could aid in setting a new MLS single-season points record if they clinch their final regular-season bout this Saturday against New England.
Currently, the stage is set for Inter Miami, with Messi being a pivotal force both on and off the pitch; they are poised to establish new league standards, inviting anticipation among fans who await the upcoming MLS Cup playoffs where Inter Miami is guaranteed home-field advantage, as stated by Arab News.
