As Lionel Messi prepares for his final match of 2024, the focus shifts to rest and recovery before a crucial 2025. While the 2026 World Cup remains a possibility, his immediate priority is ensuring peak fitness for a demanding year ahead.

Inter Miami clinching the most points in the 2024 MLS season allowed them to take the host spot for the FIFA Club World Cup. Nonetheless, it’s a merit that wasn’t earned considering that the league has a playoff format to determine their champion.

Fireworks shot out from the rafters of Inter Miami’s Chase Stadium on Saturday night, but there was nothing for the home team to celebrate. When the final whistle blew in Fort Lauderdale, Inter Miami had been beaten 3-2 by Atlanta United and eliminated from the MLS playoffs.

Lionel Messi and Inter Miami suffered a shock elimination in the first round of the Major League Soccer (MLS) playoffs on Saturday, losing 3-2 to No. 9 seed Atlanta United on home soil in the best-of-three series decider.

There will be no MLS Cup for Lionel Messi and Inter Miami this year. Atlanta United saw to that with a massive upset, sending the game’s most decorated player and biggest-spending team home earlier than anyone imagined.

The Argentine won't be in MLS forever and his shock early exit from the playoffs is an opportunity to really evaluate 'the Messi effect'

Lionel Messi vowed to "come back stronger" in 2025, following Inter Miami's elimination for the 2024 Major League Soccer playoffs on Saturday night at Chase Stadium.

The Herons' Round 1 playoff exit raises questions about their transfer and recruitment strategy over the past season