Miami, October 16, 2025
News Summary
As the Landon Donovan MLS MVP race approaches its conclusion, Lionel Messi stands out with 26 goals and 18 assists, leading in key stats. He recently scored twice in a victory against Atlanta United, helping Inter Miami as they gear up for the playoffs. Competing closely with Messi are Sam Surridge, Denis Bouanga, and Anders Dreyer, all showcasing impressive performances. As the final matches approach, the competition intensifies for the MVP title and Golden Boot, with Messi aiming for a record second consecutive MVP award.
Miami – As the 2025 Landon Donovan MLS MVP race heads towards its finale on October 18, Lionel Messi is firmly in the lead. With the conclusion of the regular season approaching, Messi has recorded a league-best 26 goals and is tied for the most assists at 18. His total of 44 goal contributions positions him just five shy of Carlos Vela’s single-season record of 49, making him a favorite for the award as Decision Day nears.
Messi’s performance was highlighted in a recent match where he scored two goals and assisted on another in Inter Miami’s convincing 3–0 victory against Atlanta United. He opened the scoring in the 39th minute and sealed the game with a second goal in the 87th minute. His outstanding efforts have propelled Inter Miami into the playoffs, aiming to clinch their first MLS Cup title, starting with playoff matches on October 22.
Competing closely with Messi are other performers such as Sam Surridge of Nashville SC, who has amassed 29 goals in 36 games this season. His contributions were vital in helping Nashville win its first title, the US Open Cup. Surridge has netted 23 goals in league play, showcasing a formidable scoring record that makes him a strong contender for the MVP as well.
Additional notable players include Denis Bouanga of LAFC, who has scored 24 goals this season, including 10 in his last six games. Bouanga has also made history as the first MLS player to achieve three consecutive seasons with at least 20 goals. Meanwhile, Anders Dreyer has been a standout newcomer, amassing 35 goal contributions (17 goals, 18 assists) and positioning himself as a frontrunner for the Newcomer of the Year award.
Evander, currently with FC Cincinnati, brings a combined total of 32 goals and 33 assists over the last two seasons, enhancing his candidacy for the MVP title. Additionally, Martin Ojeda of Orlando City has recorded 25 direct goal involvements (16 goals, 9 assists), but his achievements are somewhat overshadowed by the prolific performances of Messi and his closest rival contenders.
Messi seeks to become the first player in MLS history to win the MVP award two years in a row. The Golden Boot race is shaping up to be competitive as well, with Bouanga closely trailing Messi at 24 goals and Surridge following him at 23 goals. With one final match against Nashville SC remaining, Messi looks to increase both his Golden Boot tally and MVP chances just ahead of the playoffs.
The intensity of the league’s competitive landscape is palpable as MVP voting draws near. The spotlight remains on Messi as well as several other exceptional talents vying for recognition in what has been a thrilling season filled with dramatic turns and pivotal moments.
Key Statistics
| Player | Goals | Assists | Goal Contributions | Team |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lionel Messi | 26 | 18 | 44 | Inter Miami |
| Sam Surridge | 29 | N/A | 29 | Nashville SC |
| Denis Bouanga | 24 | N/A | 24 | LAFC |
| Anders Dreyer | 17 | 18 | 35 | San Diego FC |
| Evander | 32 (total last 2 seasons) | 33 (total last 2 seasons) | N/A | FC Cincinnati |
FAQ Section
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Who is leading the 2025 MLS MVP race?
Lionel Messi is currently leading the 2025 MLS MVP race with 26 goals and 18 assists.
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What are the key statistics for Messi this season?
Messi has scored 26 goals and provided 18 assists, totaling 44 goal contributions this season.
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Who are the main competitors for the MVP title?
Other main competitors include Sam Surridge, Denis Bouanga, and Anders Dreyer, with each having impressive stats this season.
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When does the regular MLS season conclude?
The regular season concludes on Decision Day, October 18, 2025.
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When do the playoffs start?
The playoffs begin on October 22, 2025.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- MLS Soccer: MVP Power Rankings – Lionel Messi
- Sports Illustrated: Messi Takes Golden Boot Lead
- MLS Soccer: Decision Day – 10 Players Who Will Decide the Drama
- Philadelphia Union: Tai Baribo Makes History in MVP Performance
- USA Today: NYCFC vs Inter Miami – Will Messi Play?
- Wikipedia: 2025 Landon Donovan MLS MVP Award
- Google Search: MLS MVP 2025
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Major League Soccer
- Google News: MLS 2025
- Google Scholar: MLS MVP History
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