Lionel Messi Sets New MLS Milestone
Lionel Messi has set a Major League Soccer (MLS) record for the fastest accumulation of 100 goal contributions, achieving the feat in just 64 matches. During Inter Miami's 4-2 victory over Toronto, Messi scored one goal and provided two assists. His current MLS stats stand at 59 goals and 41 assists, forming the basis for this new benchmark. The previous record was held by Sebastian Giovinco, who reached 100 goal contributions in 95 games while playing for Toronto.
The eight-time Ballon d'Or winner joined Inter Miami in the summer of 2023 and has since played 101 matches across all competitions for the club, scoring 87 goals and winning the MLS Cup. In 2023, Inter Miami claimed the Leagues Cup, a competition featuring teams from the United States and Mexico, and in 2024, they topped the regular season standings. However, the 2026 season started poorly for Inter Miami with a 3-0 loss to Los Angeles, followed by elimination from the CONCACAF Champions Cup after two draws against Nashville (0-0 and 1-1).
Coaching Changes and New Signings
Amid coaching staff changes, Inter Miami parted ways with head coach Javier Mascherano after 12 MLS regular-season matches, during which the team recorded six wins and four draws. At the time of his departure, Inter Miami sat third in the Eastern Conference with 22 points. Meanwhile, Montreal coach Marc Donadel was also dismissed; his team currently holds the last place in the conference standings.
- Artem Dashkovets moved from Bukovyna's reserve team to Austin's second squad.
- Dashkovets signed with Austin on a free transfer, with the club optimistic about his potential in developing young talent.
Messi's record-setting performance highlights his extraordinary impact on American soccer and his role in boosting the league's popularity. The coaching shake-up at Inter Miami suggests the club is pushing for better results, especially after a rocky start to the 2026 campaign. Additionally, the signing of young players like Dashkovets reflects a broader strategic focus on youth development across MLS clubs.
As Inter Miami navigates through a challenging season, the recent departure of head coach Javier Mascherano adds to the uncertainty surrounding the club's future. This coaching change comes at a pivotal moment, as the team seeks stability and new strategies to capitalize on Messi's record-breaking contributions. For more details on this managerial shift and its implications for the team, check out our coverage on the search for a new manager.