On Saturday, the 38-year-old Messi scored his sixth brace in seven games for Inter Miami as they beat the New York Red Bulls 5–1, but it was the mark he set in the matchup that brought Ronaldo into the conversation.

Messi was even spotted at his former Barcelona teammate Cesc Fabregas' house a few days ago, triggering rumours of a potential European return. With Fabregas currently managing Italian club Como, rumours spread over the Argentine's switch to the Italian Serie A. But, Fabregas said that the visit was purely from a personal standpoint.

By the time the 60th minute rolled around, the boisterous — and largely pro-Lionel Messi — crowd had nearly reached a fever pitch at Sports Illustrated Stadium.

Messi has scored twice in each of Miami's last five MLS games, setting a league record and propelling Mascherano's team up the table

Soccer superstar Lionel Messi is teaming up with the drinkware brand Stanley to release a new collection of drinkware products.

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.