Lionel Messi is laughing in the face of Father Time. At 38 years old, the Inter Miami star is putting up numbers that players a decade younger would envy. His 2025 stats are mind-blowing: 42 goals and 20 assists across all competitions.
Those 62 goal contributions aren't just good—they're his second-best tally since 2020. He's averaging 1.27 goal involvements per game, a figure that would make even prime Messi proud.
The Argentine wizard recently found the net again in Inter Miami's match against Nashville. Despite the 2-1 loss ending Miami's playoff hopes, Messi's form remains extraordinary. His performances are reminiscent of his magical run during Argentina's 2022 World Cup triumph.
Breaking Down The Numbers
This year's 42-goal haul sits just one shy of his 2021 record (43 goals). But what's truly impressive is his efficiency. In 2021, he needed 61 games to reach 43 goals (0.70 per game). Now he's banged in 42 goals in just 49 appearances—that's 0.86 goals per game!
When you add his 20 assists to the mix, Messi's total of 62 attack points in 2025 is only three short of his brilliant 2022 season (65). Both years share the same remarkable 1.27 attack involvements per game.
For bettors tracking player performance markets, Messi continues to be a goldmine. His consistency makes him a prime target for anytime goalscorer and assist markets, even as he approaches 40.
World Cup Dreams Still Alive
Inter Miami clearly believes age is just a number for Messi. The club has already extended his contract through 2028—a massive vote of confidence in the MLS top scorer.
For Argentina fans, this contract extension means everything. Their World Cup defense hopes in 2026 rest heavily on Messi's shoulders. If his current form continues, the Albiceleste remain serious contenders to retain their title.
With the 2026 World Cup being hosted across North America, Messi's familiarity with playing conditions in the region could give Argentina a slight edge. This geographical advantage coupled with his stellar form makes Argentina an attractive prospect for early World Cup outright betting.
Looking back at his attack contributions over recent years shows remarkable consistency:
- 2019: 68 points (50 goals, 18 assists) - 1.17 per game
- 2020: 46 points (27 goals, 19 assists) - 0.96 per game
- 2025 (so far): 62 points (42 goals, 20 assists) - 1.27 per game
As the 2026 World Cup approaches, all eyes will remain fixed on football's ageless wonder. Can Messi maintain this supernatural form for another year? The betting markets certainly think so—and his numbers suggest they might be right.
