In a career that has consistently be rewritten in the record books, Lionel Messi has added another chapter to it. The legendary Argentine led Inter Miami CF to an MLS Cup victory, securing a landmark that cements his status beyond any doubt, with his 48th major trophy, Lionel Messi now stands as the most decorated player in the history of football.
This latest victory in the MLS, is not merely another title, it is the crowning achievement of a 21 year journey defined by Greatness.
Barcelona’s Living Legend
The foundation of Messi’s collection was laid during a transformative 17-year tenure at FC Barcelona. There, he was the Architect of the most dominant club side of his generation. His tenure at Camp Nou yielded 35 trophies, including:
10 La Liga titles
4 UEFA Champions League
7 Copa del Rey
For years, the narrative followed that while Messi ruled club football, international glory eluded him. That story was erased in 2022 when he won the world cup in Qatar completing his football resume
The FIFA World Cup (2022)
2 Copa América titles (2021, 2024)
The Finalissima (2022)
Olympic Gold (2008) and a FIFA U-20 World Cup (2005)
The New World Chapter: The Miami Story
When Messi arrived at Inter Miami in 2023, the club was struggling and was not in a favourable position in the league.
He forged a winning culture, inspiring teammates. The “Miami Effect” resulted in a historic 2024 treble:
The Leagues Cup (2023)
The MLS Supporters’ Shield (2024)
The MLS Cup (2025)
The 48th Trophy: Lionel Messi’s complete honours list
FC Barcelona: 10x La Liga, 8x Spanish Super Cup, 7x Copa del Rey, 4x UEFA Champions League, 3x UEFA Super Cup, 3x FIFA Club World Cup.
Paris Saint-Germain:2x Ligue 1, 1x Trophée des Champions.
Inter Miami CF:1x Leagues Cup, 1x MLS Supporters’ Shield, 1x MLS Eastern Conference, 1x MLS Cup.
Argentina:1x FIFA World Cup, 2x Copa América, 1x CONMEBOL–UEFA Cup of Champions (Finalissima), 1x Olympic Gold Medal, 1x FIFA U-20 World Cup.
Lionel Messi, the boy from Rosario, is football’s most decorated icon.