Lionel Messi’s football career is nothing short of legendary. Across club and country, he has amassed an astonishing 46 trophies, making him the most decorated player in football history. Yet, despite this record, questions often arise: are there any major tournaments in which Messi has participated but has not lifted the trophy?
The debate resurfaced following Inter Miami’s triumph in the MLS Eastern Conference Final, where Messi’s team convincingly defeated New York City FC 5–1, securing a place in the MLS Cup Final. From the Western Conference, Vancouver Whitecaps emerged as the opposing finalist. If Inter Miami wins the MLS Cup on 7 December, Messi will achieve his first league title in the United States, as MLS rules dictate that the Cup winner is also the league champion.
Messi’s move from Paris Saint-Germain to Inter Miami in 2023 was largely motivated by the club’s desire to strengthen its presence in the US football market and to clinch a league title with the Argentine superstar at the helm. Having already won domestic league titles in Spain and France, Messi now has the opportunity to add an American league title to his decorated career.
While Messi has won smaller domestic trophies such as the Supporters’ Shield and the Leagues Cup with Miami, the MLS Cup remains the most prestigious prize he has yet to claim in the United States. Analysing his career, the only major trophy that has truly eluded him at the club level is the French Cup, which PSG failed to win in both the 2021–22 and 2022–23 seasons despite Messi playing the full matches.
At the international level, Messi’s trophy cabinet is near complete. He overcame the long-standing absence of a World Cup medal with Argentina in 2022, has won multiple Copa América titles, the Finalissima, an Olympic gold medal, and the U-20 World Cup.
In short, Messi’s list of missing trophies is now very limited: the French Cup and potentially the MLS Cup, should Inter Miami not triumph.