Lionel Messi holds a commanding four-goal lead atop the 2026 MLS scoring charts with 23 goals for Inter Miami, four clear of Petar Musa and further ahead of Milan Iloski, Brian White, and Kévin Denkey. His recent brace in a dominant 4-0 victory over D.C. United—his first match after retiring from Argentina duty—extended that margin while adding to double-digit assists and a goal-contribution streak. Inter Miami’s attacking output and Messi’s sustained efficiency at age 39 underpin the overwhelming trader consensus. A late injury or sharp drop in form could open the door for pursuers, though the current gap leaves little realistic room for a turnaround with the regular season winding down.