Exactly one week ago, Lionel Messi and Jordi Alba missed the All-Star Game to prioritize their physical recovery amid a packed match schedule. That decision earned the Inter Miami stars a suspension from Major League Soccer, which prevented them from playing on Saturday against FC Cincinnati. Now, just a few days later, the league has recognized the Argentine forward.
“Amid one of the hottest streaks in league history, Inter Miami CF forward Lionel Messi has been named the MLS Player of the Month for July 2025,” the league announced in an article published on its official website Wednesday.
The recognition is undisputed from a sporting perspective. Throughout July, Leo played five matches with the Herons in MLS, earning four wins and one loss. In that span, he tallied an impressive 8 goals and 3 assists, including four braces.
And the number could have been even higher, as the forward was unable to play the sixth match of the month due to the suspension he and Alba received last Saturday. That also impacted Inter Miami’s chances of securing a win against the second-place team in the Eastern Conference, as they drew 0-0 against CF Cincinnati at Chase Stadium.
Lionel Messi and Jordi Alba missed Saturday’s game vs FC Cincinnati due to suspension.
This award highlights the significance Messi holds for MLS. Just days after receiving criticism and a harsh penalty for his unjustified absence from one of the league’s marquee events, the All-Star Game, he was still recognized as the best player in the country over the past 30 days.
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Inter Miami coach Mascherano addresses Lionel Messi’s fitness after ‘mandatory rest’ vs. Cincinnati
Messi has two MLS records in sight
Just a few weeks ago, Lionel Messi marked two years with Inter Miami. In that short time, he has forever changed the club’s history, leading the Herons to their first two titles and becoming both their all-time top scorer and one of Major League Soccer’s most impactful players.
Now Leo is on track to reach two remarkable milestones in the league. The July Player of the Month award was his fourth in two years, placing him sixth on the all-time list of most decorated players. San Jose Earthquakes legend Chris Wondolowski tops that list with seven awards across his 16 MLS seasons. At this pace, Messi could surpass him soon.
The other record the Argentine superstar could soon claim is becoming the first player ever to win back-to-back Landon Donovan MLS MVP awards. Last year, after leading Inter Miami to the Supporters’ Shield title, Messi won the honor, and his performances this season make him a serious contender to repeat.
When will Messi play in MLS again?
After a demanding run of matches that included Inter Miami’s participation in the FIFA Club World Cup 2025 and a tight MLS schedule, Lionel Messi had an extended break over the past week. His last appearance came on Saturday, July 19, against New York Red Bulls, followed by his absence from the All-Star Game and the suspension that kept him out against FC Cincinnati.
Now the Herons face three straight Leagues Cup matches, starting Wednesday against Atlas, followed by Saturday’s game against Necaxa and next Wednesday’s match vs. Pumas. Once the group stage of that tournament concludes, MLS action will resume: On Sunday, August 10, Inter Miami will face Orlando City.
