Lionel Messi’s league-leading production of 23 goals and 11 assists in 23 MLS appearances for Inter Miami has solidified trader consensus around his third consecutive MVP award. The 39-year-old’s recent brace in a 4-0 win over D.C. United extended his goal tally while maintaining a multi-game scoring streak, reinforcing his role as the primary creator and finisher even after Argentina’s international farewell. Contenders such as Petar Musa (19 goals for FC Dallas) and Evander (13 goals, 10 assists for FC Cincinnati) post strong individual numbers but trail in overall goal contributions and team impact. A late injury to Messi or an unprecedented surge by another forward carrying his side to the Supporters’ Shield could narrow the gap, though the current margin leaves limited realistic paths for an upset.