Lionel Messi’s strong run with Inter Miami continues after the club’s emphatic 5–1 victory over New York City in the Eastern Conference Final, securing their spot in the MLS Cup 2025. Messi contributed an assist in the win and recently surpassed Ferenc Puskás to become the player with the most career assists in football history, reaching an incredible 405.
Despite Messi’s success in the United States, former Diego Maradona fitness coach Fernando Signorini has raised concerns about the Argentine captain’s preparation for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Signorini suggested that Messi should consider taking a break from MLS or pursuing a short-term loan to maintain competitive sharpness ahead of the tournament.
He highlighted that the US football calendar offers fewer high-intensity matches before the World Cup, unlike the schedules of European-based players. Speaking to Super Deportivo Radio, Signorini urged Messi to “prioritise the World Cup” and didn’t hold back in expressing his view of MLS, calling it “a parody of football,” suggesting that the league lacks the competitive rhythm required at the highest international level.
Messi, however, has previously commented that his participation in the 2026 World Cup will depend entirely on his physical readiness. In a past interview with SPORT, he explained that he does not want to be “a burden” on the national team and will assess his fitness leading up to the tournament. With Argentina’s MLS-affected season structure offering limited matches before the World Cup, Messi stated that each day will determine whether he feels capable of competing at the level he demands of himself.
He also acknowledged the emotional weight of the World Cup, describing it as “the biggest competition in world football” and affirming that he remains excited—yet patient—about the journey toward 2026.