Lionel Messi’s most recent major team trophy is the Campeones Cup, won with Inter Miami in September 2026. He has also continued to collect individual honors, including the 2026 MLS Golden Boot and a spot in the FIFPRO Men's World 11. These achievements mark a sustained period of success during his time in Major League Soccer.
Winning the Campeones Cup
Inter Miami defeated Cruz Azul 2-0 to capture the Campeones Cup on September 16, 2026. This annual match pits the reigning MLS Cup champion against the winner of Mexico's Campeón de Campeones. For Messi, this victory added another international trophy to his collection during his North American career.
The win followed a sequence of successes for the club, which had previously secured the Leagues Cup and the MLS Supporters' Shield. By winning the league title and the Campeones Cup, Inter Miami established itself as a dominant force in the region. Messi’s role in these campaigns focused on orchestration and creating space for teammates rather than just scoring.
Individual accolades in MLS
Messi won the 2026 MLS Golden Boot presented by Audi, marking his second consecutive season topping the league scoring charts. He finished the regular season with 26 goals in 31 matches. This performance put him ahead of other top scorers, including Petar Musa and Sam Surridge.
His statistical output extended beyond goals. Messi recorded 17 assists, pushing his total goal contributions past the 40-mark for the campaign. This dual threat made it difficult for opposing defenses to neutralize his impact, whether he was operating in the box or dictating play from deeper positions.
Recognition from peers
Following his club and international performances, Messi was voted into the FIFPRO Men's World 11. This selection was determined exclusively by professional football players worldwide. It marked his 18th appearance on the list, extending his record for the most selections in the award's history.
Being chosen by peers carries significant weight in football. It indicates that players at the highest level still view Messi as a benchmark for performance. This recognition came amidst a year where he balanced a demanding club schedule with international duties for Argentina.
Context of his 2026 season
These trophies were part of a broader narrative of sustained excellence. Prior to the 2026 season, Messi had already established Inter Miami as a title contender. His ability to maintain high standards of performance while adapting to the physical demands of the North American schedule has been a key factor in his continued success.
On the international stage, Messi led Argentina in the 2026 World Cup cycle. Although the team finished as runners-up in the final tournament, his individual contributions remained significant. He captured the Silver Ball and the Silver Boot during the competition, capping a final chapter in his national team career.
Impact on his legacy
Adding these trophies to his record reinforces his status as one of the most decorated players in football history. The Campeones Cup and the Golden Boot demonstrate that his ability to win has not diminished with age or a change of league. His record of official team trophies continues to grow, solidifying his place in the sport's upper echelon alongside other all-time greats.