

The eight-time Ballon d’Or winner has seen limited game time over recent weeks, with his MLS employers reluctant to take unnecessary gambles on his fitness. After being rested and left on the bench, Messi returned to the Herons' starting XI against Atlanta United.
It took less than 20 minutes for him to make an impact and register his first MLS goal of 2025, with the Argentine dancing past a couple of defenders before calmly clipping the ball into the back of the net. That effort helped unbeaten Inter Miami to a 2-1 win in Georgia.
"Well, Leo's goal, he's the best player in the history of this sport, there's nothing more to say. He's a player who has the ability to score the most beautiful [goal] you can see." Mascherano told reporters afterwards.