Messi Surpasses Ibrahimovic's MLS Appearance Record with More Goals

Inter Miami star Lionel Messi matches Zlatan Ibrahimovic's 56-game MLS mark but outscores the Swedish icon in goals.

Mar. 12, 2026 at 10:08pm

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Lionel Messi has matched Zlatan Ibrahimovic's record of 56 MLS appearances, but the Argentine superstar has outshone the Swedish icon in goals scored. Messi has netted 53 goals in his 56 games for Inter Miami, one more than Ibrahimovic managed in the same number of matches for the LA Galaxy. Messi has also provided 28 assists, giving him a total of 81 goal contributions compared to Ibrahimovic's 66.

Why it matters

Messi's arrival in MLS has redefined the league, and his ability to surpass Ibrahimovic's goalscoring exploits in the same number of games highlights the Argentine's incredible impact. While Ibrahimovic was a transformative figure for the LA Galaxy, Messi has taken Inter Miami to new heights, winning the Supporters' Shield in 2024 and the MLS Cup in 2025.

The details

Ibrahimovic joined the LA Galaxy in 2018 and went on to score 53 goals in 58 games, posting a remarkable ratio of 0.91 goals per game, the best in Galaxy history. However, Messi has now matched Ibrahimovic's 56-game MLS appearance record, while scoring 53 goals and providing 28 assists, giving him a total of 81 goal contributions compared to Ibrahimovic's 66.

  • Ibrahimovic joined the LA Galaxy in March 2018.
  • Messi matched Ibrahimovic's 56-game MLS appearance record last weekend against D.C. United.

The players

Lionel Messi

An Argentine professional footballer who plays as a forward for Inter Miami CF in Major League Soccer.

Zlatan Ibrahimovic

A Swedish professional footballer who played for the LA Galaxy in MLS from 2018 to 2019.

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What’s next

Messi and Inter Miami will look to build on their success and defend their MLS Cup title in the 2026 season.

The takeaway

Lionel Messi's arrival in MLS has taken the league to new heights, and his ability to surpass Zlatan Ibrahimovic's goalscoring exploits in the same number of games is a testament to the Argentine's unparalleled talent and impact on the sport.