Lionel Messi wins 46th trophy as Inter Miami secures 2024 Supporters' Shield

In a season filled with twists, triumphs, and a relentless pursuit of greatness, Lionel Messi has once again etched his name into football history. The Argentine star, already a global icon, continues to add chapters to his storied career, this time with Inter Miami CF. As the 2024 MLS season approaches its climax, Messi's stateside venture has turned into another record-breaking affair.

Inter Miami's latest feat-a historic capture of the Supporters' Shield-has catapulted the club into the spotlight. But this is more than just a trophy for the Florida-based club; it's a testament to their meteoric rise since Messi's arrival. Just a few months ago, Miami was struggling at the bottom of the standings, but with Messi pulling the strings, they've become the dominant force in MLS.

The main headline, however, is Messi extending his world-record title count. The Supporters' Shield marks his 46th career trophy, making him the most decorated footballer in history. While fans marvel at his technical brilliance, it's his ability to elevate those around him that has made this Miami team unstoppable. With two games left in the season, the club has already amassed 68 points, securing their place as the best regular-season team in MLS.

Messi's contribution has been nothing short of astonishing. With 17 goals and 15 assists in just 17 MLS matches, his numbers rival some of his best seasons in Europe. His presence has transformed a struggling side into league champions, with Inter Miami now guaranteed home-field advantage throughout the Audi 2024 MLS Cup Playoffs. Eyes are now firmly set on the grand prize-can Miami complete the double and lift the MLS Cup on December 7?

Messi's Magic: From Leagues Cup glory to Inter Miami's dominance

The turning point in Miami's season came during the 2023 Leagues Cup, where Messi showcased his Hollywood flair for the dramatic. In his very first match, Messi scored a stunning free-kick winner against Cruz Azul in stoppage time, setting the tone for what would be a whirlwind tournament. Miami went on to win the cup, with Messi playing a key role, tallying 10 goals and 4 assists in just seven matches, including a nail-biting 10-9 victory in a penalty shootout against Nashville SC in the final.

This latest success feels like déjà vu for Messi. During his illustrious time at FC Barcelona, he collected an eye-watering 35 titles, including four UEFA Champions League trophies and 10 La Liga championships. Many of those triumphs came alongside former teammates and current Inter Miami stars Sergio Busquets and Jordi Alba. Now, this trio of football royalty is bringing that same winning mentality to Miami, and the results speak for themselves.

Messi's journey didn't stop when he left Barcelona. He added three more trophies to his collection during his brief stint with Paris Saint-Germain, including back-to-back Ligue 1 titles. But his most defining moments have come with Argentina. In 2022, Messi finally captured the elusive FIFA World Cup, a crowning achievement in his international career, followed by back-to-back Copa América victories in 2021 and 2024.

As Messi continues to rewrite the history books, one question remains: How much more can he achieve? With the Supporters' Shield now in hand and a potential MLS Cup on the horizon, Messi shows no signs of slowing down. The football world watches in awe as the 37-year-old maestro proves that records are meant to be broken-especially when you're Lionel Messi.