Argentine forward Lionel Messi, of Inter Miami, was named the MLS Most Valuable Player (MVP) after scoring 20 goals and providing 16 assists in just 1,485 minutes on the field during the regular season.

At 37 years old, Messi led Inter Miami to a record points total in the regular season (74), despite missing significant portions of the year due to injury and his participation in the Copa América with the Argentine national team.

Here’s a list of Lionel Messi’s goals in 2024

February 26 vs LA Galaxy

March 2 vs Orlando City

April 6 vs Colorado Rapids

April 13 vs Sporting Kansas City 

April 20 vs Nashville 

April 27 vs New England

May 4 vs New York Red Bull

May 29 vs Atlanta United

June 1 vs St Louis City

September 14 vs Philadelphia Union

September 28 vs Charlotte FC

October 2 vs Columbus Crew 

October 19 vs New England Revolution

November 9 vs Atlanta United

What did Messi say after receiving the award?

Inter Miami prepared a special surprise for Messi when handing him the MVP award, with more than 250 kids from the club's academy positioned on the field at Chase Stadium in Fort Lauderdale (Florida) to form the letters "M-V-P". Additionally, Messi's three children waited for him with the trophy in hand.

"First, thank you for the kind words and the warm reception. The photo we took together was amazing, so thank you for that. Honestly, it’s an honor for me to receive this award from all of you. It’s a pride to see you train. I’m very happy to be here day by day. I’m very happy to be in this city, in this club that is growing," Messi said.

"I have the privilege of seeing all of you. At some point, I’ve crossed paths with almost everyone. I’ve trained with some of you. It’s a pleasure to see you grow day by day. I invite you to keep fighting and working toward your dreams. I would have liked to receive this award under different circumstances, like playing in the final next Saturday. But that’s also what football is about, improving day by day," he added.

Messi was named MLS Regular Season MVP after scoring 20 goals and providing 16 assists in just 1,485 minutes on the field.

"We had a huge dream of being MLS champions this year. It didn’t happen, but next year we’ll come back stronger to try again. That’s what it’s all about for you, especially now that you’re kids. Fight for your dreams, work hard, and fight for what you want. In the end, sacrifice and effort pay off," Messi said.

"So, keep it up. The club is still supporting you because you’re in a time of great growth and many opportunities. I’m sure you’ve noticed how the Academy has changed in the past year and a half. And don’t doubt that it will continue this way, and you’ll have all the opportunities to fight for your dreams. So, thank you very much, and it’s an honor once again to be here with all of you. Thank you," the Argentine concluded.