The 2026 MLS season is just getting into gear, but it has already made one thing clear, Lionel Messi continues to be the man to beat as Inter Miami’s Argentine star once again leads the conversation for the MVP (Most Valuable Player) award, although this time he faces much more serious and dangerous competition.
With the league approaching a break for the World Cup, several names are beginning to gain traction among fans and specialists. And while it seems impossible to imagine another winner, the performances of the likes of Sam Surridge, Hany Mukhtar and even Timo Werner are forcing many to rethink the discussion.
Lionel Messi continues to make a difference
Lionel Messi doesn’t need outrageous numbers to dominate MLS and be the league’s MVP.
Although some consider that he is not at his most explosive, his numbers continue to impress.
The Argentine has been directly involved in nine goals in ten games and continues to be the absolute focal point of Inter Miami’s attack.
However, the landscape changed around him.
The absence of Jordi Alba had a significant impact on the club’s offensive performance, while the connection with Germán Berterame has yet to be consolidated.
Even so, the world champion continues to show up at important moments and keeps Inter Miami among the top teams.
For the U.S. Hispanic community, Lionel Messi continues to be the main face of MLS,
Nashville surprises with two serious candidates
If there is one team threatening Inter Miami’s media dominance, it is Nashville SC.
The Eastern side not only got the season off to a spectacular start, but also has two players in serious contention with Lionel Messi for MLS MVP.
The first is Sam Surridge. The English striker is enjoying the best moment of his career in the United States.
After scoring 25 goals last season, he now has nine goals in just seven games.
His ability to define inside the box made him one of the most dangerous attackers in all of MLS.
But the real brains of the outfit remains Hany Mukhtar.
Although his stats may not be as eye-catching, the German continues to be the player who makes Nashville’s entire offensive system work.
His vision, mobility and playmaking skills keep him among the favorites for MVP.
Timo Werner revives in the United States
One of the most striking cases of the season is that of Timo Werner.
The German striker arrived at San José surrounded by doubts after irregular years in Europe, but he is gradually beginning to regain his best form.
Although he is not yet an undisputed starter, Werner has already been involved in nine goals in just seven MLS games.
His speed and creativity are surprising even those who questioned his arrival in U.S. soccer.
Several names are starting to gain momentum
QuéOnnda.com
Other names that cannot be ignored
Nico Fernández became NYCFC’s star player thanks to his eight goals and his connection with Maxi Moralez.
Meanwhile, Petar Musa keeps FC Dallas competitive thanks to an impressive scoring rate that has him fighting for the Golden Boot.
The season still has a long way to go, but one thing seems certain:
Lionel Messi remains the favorite for MLS MVP.
The problem for the rest of MLS is that, even when he seems “off,” he continues to be the best player in the league.
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