Inter Miami’s 2024 MLS campaign was a landmark season in the club’s history, marked by their first-ever Supporters’ Shield win and a record-breaking 74 points. This unprecedented success was driven by Lionel Messi, who transformed the team following his arrival. Messi, despite missing several games due to injury and international commitments, scored 20 goals in 19 appearances, showcasing his unmatched talent. His leadership, alongside Sergio Busquets and Luis Suárez, propelled Miami to secure a spot in the expanded 2025 FIFA Club World Cup.
Messi’s Transformational Impact
Lionel Messi’s arrival in MLS ignited a rapid transformation for Inter Miami. Before Messi, Miami struggled in the standings, but Messi’s immediate impact turned the team into a juggernaut. He helped Miami climb to the league’s top, bringing the team within reach of the record for most points in a season. His partnership with Busquets, Suárez, and Jordi Alba fellow former Barcelona teammates, reinvigorated the club, providing stability and creativity that Miami had lacked in previous seasons.
Though Messi missed 15 of Miami’s games due to injuries and international duty, his contributions when available were nothing short of exceptional. His goals often came in key moments, as he had five two-goal matches throughout the season. Notably, in a crucial 3-2 victory over the Columbus Crew, Messi scored twice, helping Miami clinch the Supporters’ Shield and further solidifying his legendary status.
Record-Breaking Achievement
Miami’s incredible 74 points surpassed the previous MLS regular-season record of 73 points set by the New England Revolution in 2021. Messi’s influence on and off the field was key in achieving this feat, as the team went 10-1-6 with him in the lineup. The Supporters’ Shield not only represented Miami’s consistent excellence throughout the season but also secured them home-field advantage in the MLS playoffs.
FIFA Club World Cup 2025
Thanks to their regular-season success, Inter Miami has been granted a spot in the expanded 32-team FIFA Club World Cup, set to take place in the United States in 2025. The tournament will feature some of the world’s best clubs, including Manchester City, Real Madrid, and Chelsea. This competition presents a significant opportunity for Miami to showcase themselves on the global stage and compete against Europe’s top teams.
FIFA President Gianni Infantino praised Miami for being the best club in the United States this season, further adding to the excitement surrounding their participation in the Club World Cup. With Messi, Busquets, and Suárez on their roster, Miami will look to leave a lasting impression against global giants.
A Glimpse into the Future
While the 2024 MLS regular season will be remembered as the year Messi and Inter Miami rewrote the history books, the club is poised for even more success. With home-field advantage secured for the MLS playoffs and their entry into the FIFA Club World Cup, Miami has the chance to cement their place as one of the premier clubs in world football. Fans and critics alike are eager to see how Messi’s leadership will continue to shape the future of the club.
In just a season and a half, Messi’s arrival has not only brought silverware to Miami but also elevated the entire profile of MLS on the global stage. His influence extends beyond the field, positioning Inter Miami as a club with the potential to make waves far beyond U.S. borders.
