Miami, Florida, October 16, 2025
News Summary
As the MVP race nears its conclusion, Lionel Messi shines with 26 goals and 18 assists, vying for his second consecutive MVP award. His standout contributions, including a remarkable 44 goal involvements, have propelled Inter Miami in the playoffs. With other contenders like Sam Surridge and Denis Bouanga also making headlines, the competition is intense as Decision Day approaches, promising an exhilarating conclusion to the season.
Miami, Florida – As the 2025 Landon Donovan MLS MVP race approaches its climax, Lionel Messi is leading the charge with a league-leading 26 goals and a shared lead in assists with 18. These statistics put him in a prime position for the prestigious MVP award, which he seeks to win for a second consecutive year—an achievement that would be unparalleled in league history.
The regular season has been notably unpredictable, contributing to an exciting and historical finish. Messi’s impressive performance includes a remarkable 44 goal contributions, which is only five shy of Carlos Vela’s single-season record of 49. His most recent standout display came in a decisive 3–0 victory over Atlanta United, where he scored two goals, including one in the 39th minute and another in the 87th minute, along with an assist.
Messi’s ongoing contributions have been instrumental in helping Inter Miami advance in the playoffs, with the MLS Cup playoffs set to begin shortly after the regular season concludes on October 18, 2025.
In addition to Messi’s accomplishments, Sam Surridge from Nashville SC has made headlines by netting 29 goals in 36 games during the season, including 23 goals in league play. His performance helped Nashville SC clinch its first title in the US Open Cup. Meanwhile, Denis Bouanga of LAFC is also a contender for the MVP, contributing 24 goals this season and making history by achieving 20 goals for three consecutive seasons. Anders Dreyer, who plays for San Diego FC, has been a remarkable individual as well, with 35 goal contributions to date, while Evander, now of FC Cincinnati, boasts a total of 32 goals and 33 assists across the last two seasons.
Beyond the top contenders, several players are vying for the MVP spotlight. Martin Ojeda of Orlando City stands out, with 25 direct goal involvements this season, but he finds his achievements somewhat eclipsed among the leading candidates. Dreyer’s impressive consistency has made him a contender for the Newcomer of the Year award in the crowded MVP landscape. With the voting deadline swiftly approaching, the league’s competitive dynamics have become even more intense as these standout players vie for the title.
As fans look forward to the playoffs commencing on October 22, Messi’s hopes for consecutive MVP titles remain vital, while the dynamic league continues to showcase exceptional talent. His last regular-season match against Nashville SC could provide an opportunity to increase his Golden Boot tally and further solidify his position in the MVP race.
The stage is set for a thrilling conclusion to the MLS regular season as Decision Day, October 18, draws nearer, promising an exhilarating finale to an eventful season.
Key Stats in the MVP Race
| Player | Goals | Assists | Total Contributions |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lionel Messi | 26 | 18 | 44 |
| Sam Surridge | 23 | N/A | 29 |
| Denis Bouanga | 24 | N/A | 24 |
| Anders Dreyer | 17 | 18 | 35 |
| Evander | 32 (combined) | 33 (combined) | 65 (combined) |
FAQs
What is the MVP race in MLS?
The MVP race in Major League Soccer (MLS) recognizes the league’s top player based on their performance during the regular season.
Who is leading the MVP race for the 2025 season?
Lionel Messi is currently leading the MVP race with 26 goals and 18 assists.
When does the MLS regular season conclude?
The MLS regular season concludes on October 18, 2025, known as Decision Day.
Who are some other contenders for the MVP award?
Other notable contenders include Sam Surridge, Denis Bouanga, Anders Dreyer, and Evander.
What are the upcoming playoff dates for MLS?
The MLS Cup playoffs are scheduled to begin shortly after the regular season concludes, starting October 22, 2025.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- MLS Soccer: MVP Power Rankings – Lionel Messi
- Sports Illustrated: Messi Takes Golden Boot Lead
- MLS Soccer: Decision Day – 10 Players Who Will Decide the Drama
- Philadelphia Union: Tai Baribo Makes History in MVP Performance
- USA Today: NYCFC vs Inter Miami – Will Messi Play?
- Wikipedia: 2025 Landon Donovan MLS MVP Award
- Google Search: MLS MVP 2025
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Major League Soccer
- Google News: MLS 2025
- Google Scholar: MLS MVP History
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