In a spectacular ceremony hosted by MARCA in Miami, Lionel Messi was honored for his unprecedented achievement as the most decorated player in the history of football. With an astounding 46 collective titles over 21 years, he has cemented his place at the pinnacle of world football, a legacy that continues to grow even after his move to Inter Miami.
Messi’s incredible journey has seen him conquer domestic leagues, international tournaments, and prestigious individual awards. His trophy-laden career includes memorable stints with Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain, as well as numerous triumphs with Argentina’s national team. This celebration was a testament to a career that has not only redefined success but also inspired millions across the globe.
Messi’s Astonishing 46 Collective Titles
Lionel Messi’s trophy cabinet is nothing short of remarkable. Over his 21 seasons, he has accumulated 46 collective titles, surpassing every other player in the sport’s history. These include league titles, cup victories, international honors, and continental championships.
Domestic Success:
- Barcelona (2004–2021): Messi’s most significant achievements were with Barcelona, where he won 10 La Liga titles, 7 Copa del Rey trophies, and 8 Supercopa de España titles. His time at the Catalan club marked an era of unprecedented success, where Messi was instrumental in Barcelona’s dominance, both in Spain and Europe.
- Paris Saint-Germain (2021–2023): After leaving Barcelona, he joined PSG, where he added 2 Ligue 1 titles and a Trophée des Champions to his already packed resume. Although his time in Paris was short, it showcased his ability to adapt and continue winning in a new environment.
- Inter Miami (2023–Present): Messi’s move to Major League Soccer (MLS) has been equally successful. In his first few months with Inter Miami, he won the MLS Supporters’ Shield and the Leagues Cup, further enhancing his legacy as a player who can make an impact wherever he plays.
International Glory:
- With Argentina, Messi has added significant accolades to his name. The pinnacle of his international career came in 2022 when he lifted the FIFA World Cup. His other major achievements include two Copa América titles, the Finalissima, an Olympic gold medal in 2008, and an Under-20 World Cup title.
Win big when you bet Jambobet virtuals. Play more to increase your chances of winning
Individual Awards: The Ultimate Testimony to Messi’s Brilliance
While Messi’s collective titles are extraordinary, his individual accolades are equally impressive. His personal accomplishments further underline why he is considered one of the greatest, if not the greatest, footballers of all time.
Among Messi’s most prestigious individual honors are:
- 8 Ballon d’Or Awards: Messi has won more Ballon d’Ors than any other player, underscoring his consistency and brilliance over the years. He is widely expected to add to this tally in the future.
- 6 Golden Boots: These awards honor Messi’s goal-scoring prowess, recognizing him as Europe’s top scorer on six occasions.
- 9 La Liga MVP Awards: During his time in Spain, Messi was a constant force in La Liga, earning MVP honors nine times.
- 6 Champions League Top Scorer Awards: Messi’s European dominance was further highlighted by his six Champions League top scorer awards.
- 2 World Cup Golden Balls: For his breathtaking performances during the World Cup tournaments, Messi won the Golden Ball twice, in 2014 and 2022.
In total, Messi has collected 56 individual awards across his career, further establishing him as an extraordinary talent in world football.
The MARCA Ceremony: Honoring Messi’s Unrivaled Career
The ceremony hosted by MARCA in Miami was a momentous occasion, paying tribute to Messi’s unmatched legacy. Inter Miami’s owner, Jorge Mas, alongside Chilean model and television presenter Sofía Depassier, led the event, which highlighted Messi’s impact on football and his influence on Latin American sports culture.
Mas praised Messi’s contributions to Major League Soccer, noting how his arrival in the U.S. has elevated the league’s profile and competitiveness. Since joining Inter Miami, he has not only won titles but also transformed the club into one of the most talked-about teams in American sports.
Depassier, who hosted the event, delivered a heartfelt tribute to Messi, focusing on his profound influence on Latin American football. She emphasized that Messi’s success has transcended Argentina, inspiring young players across the continent and beyond.
The highlight of the evening came when Messi was awarded a hand-sculpted trophy and a personalized portrait by renowned artist Jaime Tortosa. The football icon, visibly moved, expressed his gratitude to MARCA, thanking them for the recognition and reflecting on his journey.
Messi’s Future: A Hint at the 2026 World Cup
Despite his numerous accolades, Messi made it clear during the ceremony that he is far from finished. While there has been speculation about his future and possible retirement, Messi hinted at the tantalizing possibility of appearing in the 2026 World Cup. Although he is taking things one season at a time, Messi did not rule out the prospect of representing Argentina on the world stage one more time, much to the delight of his global fanbase.
“I’m not rushing anything,” Messi said, “I still have the passion and desire to keep competing and winning.”
This statement from him keeps the door open for fans who are eager to see more of his magic. At 37 years old, he continues to perform at the highest level, proving that age is just a number for a player of his extraordinary talent.
A Legacy That Will Never Be Forgotten
Lionel Messi’s legacy is unmatched in the history of football. His 46 titles, combined with his individual honors, represent more than just silverware—they symbolize his influence on the game and the joy he has brought to millions of fans worldwide.
As he continues his journey with Inter Miami and beyond, his dedication to the sport remains as strong as ever. The MARCA ceremony in Miami was a fitting tribute to a player whose legacy will endure for generations to come.
ALSO READ:
- Who Should Win the 2024 Ballon d’Or? Messi Has His Say
- Messi Not Retiring Anytime Soon: “I Just Want to Fully Enjoy All This
