Miami, Florida, October 22, 2025
News Summary
Lionel Messi has earned the MLS Player of the Month award for his stellar performances in October, significantly contributing to Inter Miami CF’s strong finish in the regular season. His remarkable tally includes 5 goals and 5 assists across the last three matches, bringing his season total to 48 goal contributions. As the playoffs approach, Messi’s pivotal role and ambitions to win back-to-back MVP awards are highlighted amid the team’s preparations for their first playoff match against Nashville SC.
Miami, Florida – Lionel Messi has been honored as the MLS Player of the Month for October 2025, following a commendable performance that propelled Inter Miami CF to a strong finish in the regular season. Messi’s skill on the field shone brightly as he tallied a remarkable 10 goals—5 of which were goals and 5 were assists—across the final three matches of the season.
This accolade marks the third time Messi has received Player of the Month honors this season, having previously won in May and July. His performance in October was crucial, as he was directly involved in game-winning goals and assists in two of those matches, demonstrating his pivotal role in the team’s success.
Messi’s contributions throughout the season earned him the prestigious MLS Golden Boot, highlighting a sensational total of 48 goal contributions, consisting of 29 goals and 19 assists. This impressive tally is the second-most in a single season in MLS history. Notably, Messi is the only player in the league’s history to have recorded at least 36 goal contributions in multiple seasons, having also achieved this milestone in 2024 with 20 goals and 16 assists.
As the team prepares for the upcoming playoffs, Messi has set his sights on becoming the first player in MLS history to win back-to-back MVP awards. Inter Miami will square off against Nashville SC on Friday at 8 p.m. ET in a Round One Best-of-3 Series of the Audi 2025 MLS Cup Playoffs at Chase Stadium. A potential playoff victory could advance them to face the winner of the Cincinnati vs. Columbus Crew in the conference semifinal.
Despite a minor setback due to back discomfort that caused Messi to miss a training session, he is expected to return to training shortly and remain fit for the playoff match. His recent performance culminated in a hat trick during a critical 5-2 victory over Nashville in the regular-season finale.
Last season, Inter Miami topped the regular-season standings but faced a disappointing exit in the first round of the playoffs. This year, the team finished third in the Eastern Conference and was unable to retain the Supporters’ Shield. As the playoffs approach, players are motivated to avoid repeating previous failures and aim for success.
Defensively, Inter Miami has shown vulnerabilities, leading the league with 81 goals scored but also conceding 55. This playoff series, consisting of best-of-three matches, will use penalty shootouts to determine winners if games are tied after regulation. All potential home playoff games, including matches of the MLS Cup championship on December 6, will take place at Chase Stadium.
As the excitement builds for the playoffs, Inter Miami players have high expectations for winning the MLS Cup, recognizing Messi’s integral role in their ambitions. Fans can tune in to watch the playoff series available on Apple TV, FS1, and FOX Deportes. Tickets for all playoff matches can be obtained through the Inter Miami official website.
FAQ
Who was named the MLS Player of the Month for October 2025?
Lionel Messi was named the MLS Player of the Month for October 2025.
How many goals did Messi score in October?
Messi scored a total of 5 goals in October.
What is Messi’s total goal contribution for the 2025 season?
Messi finished the season with 48 goal contributions, which include 29 goals and 19 assists.
When does Inter Miami play their first playoff match?
Inter Miami’s first playoff match is on Friday at 8 p.m. ET.
What kind of playoff format will Inter Miami face?
The playoff series consists of a best-of-three format.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| October Performance | 5 goals, 5 assists in final three matches |
| Total 2025 Season Contributions | 48 (29 goals, 19 assists) |
| Next Match | vs Nashville SC on Friday at 8 p.m. ET |
| Playoffs Format | Best-of-3 series |
| Location | Chase Stadium |
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HERE Resources
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Additional Resources
- Miami Herald: Lionel Messi Recognized as MLS Player of the Month
- Inter Miami CF: Messi Named MLS Player of the Matchday
- MLS Soccer: Messi Named Player of the Matchday
- Wikipedia: Lionel Messi
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Lionel Messi
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