Lionel Messi’s statistical output for Inter Miami has shown a notable decline in his second season, according to data compiled by Camel Live, with the Argentine icon trading blistering efficiency for a more playmaking role. Here’s a detailed breakdown of his performance across two campaigns:
2023/24 Season (Debut Year): Trophy-Laden Dominance
Games Played: 25
Goals: 23 (0.92 per match)
Assists: 13 (0.52 per match)
Goal+Assist Involvement: 1.44 per game
Market Value: €35 million
Messi’s arrival in July 2023 sparked a transformative surge for Inter Miami. His 23 goals included a stunning free-kick in the Leagues Cup final and a hat-trick in the US Open Cup semi-finals, while his 13 assists highlighted his dual threat as a scorer and creator. The 3500 万欧 valuation reflected his status as MLS’ undisputed marquee signing, with pundits praising his “revolutionary impact on North American soccer.”
2024/25 Season: Production Slips, but Influence Persists
Games Played: 24
Goals: 16 (0.67 per match)
Assists: 6 (0.25 per match)
Goal+Assist Involvement: 0.92 per game
Market Value: €18 million
While Messi’s 16-goal, 6-assist tally remains impressive, the drop in efficiency (1.44 to 0.92 goal contributions per game) mirrors Inter Miami’s inconsistent campaign.
Despite the dip, his leadership proved vital in Miami’s run to the CONCACAF Champions Cup quarterfinals, where he scored a decisive late winner against Cruz Azul.
Statistical Context: Efficiency vs. Endurance
Shot Conversion Rate: 2023/24 (21.5%) vs. 2024/25 (18.3%) — a marginal decline, but still above MLS average (12.7%).
Key Passes per Game: Increased from 3.8 to 4.5, indicating a shift toward playmaking.
Market Value Drop: The €17 million decrease reflects age-related depreciation, though Messi remains MLS’ highest-valued player by €8 million.
