Lionel Messi has no shortage of motivation in 2025. His Inter Miami CF won the Supporters' Shield last season, setting an MLS single-season record for points in the process, before being humbly knocked out of the playoffs in Round 1.

A dramatic 97th-minute goal by Maya Yoshida earned LA Galaxy a 4-4 draw in the Los Angeles derby against LAFC on Saturday, while Lionel Messi delivered another masterclass with two goals and an assist in Inter Miami’s 5-1 rout of the New York Red Bulls.

Rodrigo De Paul is on the verge of joining Inter Miami, a move that could be key to ensuring Lionel Messi’s continued presence at the club. According to reports from Argentina, Atlético de Madrid has reached an agreement with the MLS franchise for a fee of €15 million plus add-ons.

Lionel Messi is getting another bodyguard.Atletico Madrid midfielder Rodrigo De Paul is joining Inter Miami on an initial loan with a view toward making the move permanent, sources told Lizzy Becherano of ESPN.

Inter Miami boss Javier Mascherano has defended Lionel Messi's 'unquestionable' teammate amid his goal drought.

Surprise: An Anders Dreyer brace powered San Diego to a 2-1 win at Chicago. He’s up to a league-best 26 goal contributions this season. Dreyer, Messi and Evander are the only players with more than 20. He’s been the league’s most productive player on the Western Conference’s highest goal-scoring (and points-earning) team.