Lionel Messi has a fantastic season and evokes memories of Sebastian Giovinco at Toronto FC

Lionel Messi had a sensational season in Major League Soccer, winning the league's MVP award in 2024 over former Toronto FC player Sebastian Giovnico.

His 20 goals and 16 assists not only propelled Inter Miami to new heights but also placed him in an elite category of MLS history. Messi is now one of only three players to have achieved the rare milestone of 20+ goals and 15+ assists in a single season.

Messi's achievement drew comparisons to two other legendary seasons in MLS history: Sebastian Giovinco's remarkable 2015 campaign with Toronto FC and Carlos Vela’s record-breaking 2019 season for LAFC.

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Sebastian Giovinco: The Benchmark

In 2015, Sebastian Giovinco set the standard with an unforgettable season for Toronto FC. The Italian forward registered 22 goals and 16 assists, leading his team to the playoffs while earning multiple accolades, including the MLS MVP award, the Golden Boot, and the Newcomer of the Year award.

Giovinco’s dominance extended to being named in the MLS Best XI, solidifying his status as one of the greatest players in league history.

Giovinco’s 2015 numbers surpass Messi’s in terms of goal contributions, and his legacy is further cemented by Toronto FC's success during his tenure. The 2016 and 2017 seasons saw Giovinco lead Toronto FC to unparalleled success, capturing the MLS Cup, the Supporters’ Shield, and multiple Canadian Championships.

Carlos Vela: The Gold Standard

While Messi and Giovinco have etched their names in MLS history, Carlos Vela’s 2019 campaign stands as the pinnacle. The Mexican forward delivered an astonishing 34 goals and 15 assists, setting a single-season goal record that remains unmatched. Vela’s offensive output powered LAFC to the Supporters’ Shield and redefined what a dominant MLS season could look like.

An excellent legacy from the former Toronto FC player

Messi’s remarkable 2024 season adds another chapter to the legacy of elite performers in MLS history. However, the comparisons to Giovinco and Vela underscore the unique brilliance each of these players brought to the league. Giovinco remains a Toronto FC icon and an MLS legend, remembered not only for his individual accolades but also for leading his team to historic success.

As Messi continues to make his mark in MLS, his debut season stands as a testament to the league’s growing appeal and the extraordinary talent it continues to attract.