<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/inter-miami">Inter Miami</a> had a season in which they met and exceeded expectations, driven by strong management under Javier Mascherano and the influence of Lionel Messi. While the campaign was widely considered a success, the club made it clear that its ambitions extended beyond just one year. With an eye on remaining title contenders, Inter Miami moved quickly in the offseason to strengthen key areas of the roster ahead of the next MLS season.



<a href="https://www.intermiamicf.com/news/inter-miami-cf-signs-2025-mls-goalkeeper-of-the-year-dayne-st-clair">Inter Miami announced through their official social media channels</a> the signing of Canadian goalkeeper Dayne St. Clair as a reinforcement for the upcoming MLS campaign. In their statement, the club highlighted the arrival of one of the most consistent goalkeepers from the previous season, signaling a clear intention to reinforce the squad with proven talent.



“I’m very excited to join the club and represent them both on and off the field. I can’t wait to meet everyone and start preparing to win trophies. See you soon,” the goalkeeper said in a video message shared by the club on X, formerly known as Twitter.



St. Clair, 28, arrived from Minnesota United after making 159 appearances for the club since being selected in the 2019 SuperDraft. He also recorded 18 appearances with Canada, establishing himself as one of the most reliable figures in Canadian <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/soccer">soccer</a> over recent seasons.



<figure class="wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped">
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" data-id="547957" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20260104_BUS_556460_dayne-st-clair_b84d5c27.webp&amp;width=1920&amp;height=1080" alt="Dayne St. Clair during a Minnesota United game." class="wp-image-547957"></figure><figcaption>Dayne St. Clair during a Minnesota United game.</figcaption></figure>
</figure>



<h2>St. Clair leaving his mark in the MLS</h2>



St. Clair was named the MLS Goalkeeper of the Year in 2025 after posting a 77.93 save percentage, registering 113 saves, and recording 10 clean sheets across 30 regular-season matches. He finished ahead of Matt Freese of New York City FC and Yohei Takaoka of the Vancouver Whitecaps in the final voting.


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<h2>Competition following the new signing</h2>



The arrival of St. Clair came after the departure of Drake Callender. Under Javier Mascherano, the primary option in goal had been Oscar Ustari, while the club also confirmed that Rocco Rios Novo would remain as an alternative heading into the new season.



St. Clair is a leading candidate to start in goal for Canada at the upcoming <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/world-cup">World Cup</a>, under head coach Jesse Marsch. After serving as a backup during the 2022 tournament in Qatar, he entered the next cycle competing directly with Maxime Crepeau for the top role.



According to the club, the move was finalized after St. Clair was unable to reach an extension agreement with Minnesota, allowing Inter Miami to complete the signing and further solidify their roster. The club also secured the continuity of <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/lionel-messi">Lionel Messi</a> through 2028, retained Luis Suarez, exercised the purchase option on Rodrigo de Paul, and added fullbacks Sergio Reguilon and <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/soccer/lionel-messi-gains-a-new-argentine-teammate-as-inter-miami-confirm-their-first-2026-signing">Facundo Mura as part of a busy and ambitious offseason</a>.

Inter Miami sign Canada goalkeeper Dayne St. Clair ahead of upcoming MLS season

Lionel Messi’s Inter Miami announce stellar signing who aspires to play in 2026 World Cup

Lionel Messi could get a new teammate as a USMNT international confirms Inter Miami’s interest

Lionel Messi gains a new Argentine teammate as Inter Miami confirm their first 2026 signing

Lionel Messi's Inter Miami announce stellar signing who aspires to play in 2026 World Cup - Bolavip US

miniaturas

Following their historic MLS Cup victory, <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/lionel-messi">Lionel Messi</a>’s Inter Miami are wasting no time in the transfer market as they prepare for the 2026 season. With the goal of defending their title, the Florida franchise has officially confirmed its first signing and is moving quickly to secure a second name to bolster the defense.



The first confirmed reinforcement is Facundo Mura. The 26-year-old right-back was officially announced by <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/inter-miami">Inter Miami</a> after becoming a free agent from Racing Club. The defender has signed a contract through June 2029, marking his first professional experience outside of Argentina.



“I am very happy to join the club, with a great desire to work and the hope of continuing to win titles,” Mura expressed in a presentation video. His arrival is intended to fill the vacancy left by Marcelo Weigandt, who returned to Boca Juniors after two seasons with the club.



With four titles won at Racing Club and a record of 12 goals and 15 assists in 148 matches across all competitions, all signs indicate that Mura has the credentials to take over the starting role on the right flank. This opportunity was likely a key factor in his decision to accept Inter Miami’s offer over other suitors, such as Argentina’s River Plate.



<div class="ck-twitter"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">Facundo Mura ya está en Miami 👋 <a href="https://t.co/MglqXYKhUO">pic.twitter.com/MglqXYKhUO</a>— Inter Miami CF (@InterMiamiCF) <a href="https://twitter.com/InterMiamiCF/status/2007554216987070604?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 3, 2026</a></blockquote></div> 



<h2>Inter Miami eye South American market for second signing</h2>



The news from Fort Lauderdale doesn’t stop with Mura. The Herons are reportedly close to securing their second reinforcement of the year: Micael, a 25-year-old center-back currently with Palmeiras.


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Negotiations with the Brazilian club are in advanced stages and are trending toward a loan with an option to buy. Palmeiras’ objective is to recoup the nearly $6 million investment they made when they purchased him from Houston Dynamo, another MLS side.



Micael, who arrived in Brazil at the beginning of last year, lost ground in coach Abel Ferreira’s rotation during the final semester of 2025 and is reportedly eager to return to the MLS to relaunch his career. If the final details are finalized, he will skip Palmeiras’ preseason and fly directly to Miami to join the squad’s growing South American contingent.

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Lionel Messi gains a new Argentine teammate as Inter Miami confirm their first 2026 signing - Bolavip US

After winning the MLS Cup title for the first time in their history, Inter Miami are working to continue reinforcing the team to keep giving <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/lionel-messi">Lionel Messi</a> chances to continue writing history with the franchise. In that sense, a USMNT attacking midfielder confirmed that the Herons showed interest in him during the transfer market.



Reports indicated that<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/soccer/lionel-messis-inter-miami-reportedly-interested-in-signing-usmnt-international-midfielder"> Inter Miami had shown interest in Matko Miljevic</a>, but it was the former CF Montreal and USMNT midfielder himself who recently confirmed the Florida club’s interest in an interview with ESPN.



“Right on the 31st of December or January 1st, a person called me and told me that the possibility was there, that they wanted me, but I’m going to be very careful because I don’t think there is a formal offer, but rather inquiries. They told me that in these days they were going to send an offer to the club, but I won’t speak there, although the interest reached me,” Miljevic noted.



However, the competition <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/inter-miami">Inter Miami</a> face for the attacking midfielder is difficult, as Racing Club are one of the main teams looking to sign Miljevic in this transfer window. Furthermore, although Miljevic mentioned being happy at Huracan, he recognized that it would be an important step in his career to play for a club like Racing Club.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20260103_BUS_555697_matko-miljevic-usa_9636a776.webp&amp;width=1920&amp;height=1080" alt="" class="wp-image-555704"></figure></figure>



“Today I owe myself to Huracan, because I still have a contract there and it was a very nice year here, where they treated me wonderfully, but a player always yearns to take positive steps forward. And I believe that today the option of Racing, which everyone knows about, would be a beautiful opportunity,” the 24-year-old player added.



<h2>Miljevic dreams of 2026 World Cup opportunity with USMNT</h2>


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The former CF Montreal midfielder made his international debut in early January 2025, after Mauricio Pochettino included him in the squad for the year’s opening friendlies. In a standout debut, Miljevic recorded both a goal and an assist in a 3-1 victory over Venezuela.



He followed that performance by logging minutes in a second friendly against Costa Rica. However, since those initial appearances, he has not returned to the national team setup, missing friendlies and the CONCACAF Gold Cup.



Despite this, the player stated that he sees himself with a chance to compete in the 2026 World Cup with the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/usmnt">USMNT</a>. “I see myself with a chance, and I really want to play in the World Cup. It’s the first thing any kid thinks about—playing in a World Cup—and to have the possibility of doing it with an Argentine coach in the United States, Mauricio Pochettino, especially after he has called you up and told you he’s keeping you in mind… it’s tempting,” Miljevic explained.



Additionally, he indicated that he views the work Pochettino is doing with the national team very positively, noting that it also represents an improvement for MLS. “I see the National Team doing very well. There is a line of young players who have been doing very good and consolidated work for years, and now the arrival of Mauricio, a year ago, I think is good for the National Team, for U.S. soccer, and for MLS,” he concluded.

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Lionel Messi could get a new teammate as a USMNT international confirms Inter Miami’s interest - Bolavip US

<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/lionel-messi">Lionel Messi</a> was the undisputed star of the 2025 season for Inter Miami, earning both the regular season MVP and the MLS Cup Final MVP after leading the team to its first-ever league title. Alongside him, Tadeo Allende emerged as one of the team’s most vital contributors, though he was forced to depart the franchise to return to Celta Vigo following the expiration of his loan.



Following the championship win, the Herons expressed a formal interest in negotiating a permanent transfer for the Argentine forward. It appears they have now received an encouraging update as Celta Vigo announced that Allende will take extra days of leave before joining the team’s preseason.



“We have spoken with him so that he has a few more days of vacation to also try to find out what we are going to do, what the best solution is for all parties,” said Claudio Giraldez, Celta’s head coach, during a press conference ahead of their match against Valencia. “Whether he stays or not, I am in communication with him. He is a spectacular kid and has great talent”.



The Spanish manager described Allende’s performance in the United States as “brilliant,” though he was quick to point out the “physical conditions” that differentiate the two leagues.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20260103_BUS_555649_tadeo-allende_3431ac4f.webp&amp;width=1920&amp;height=1080" alt="" class="wp-image-555662"></figure><figcaption>Tadeo Allende celebrates a goal against Vancouver Whitecaps. (Getty Images)</figcaption></figure>



“Tadeo has had a brilliant loan in soccer terms. When we spoke with him, we demanded that he have continuity to find his rhythm,” Giraldez explained. “Obviously, it is not the league closest to ours in terms of the physical factors we would have liked, but he has played many minutes and the number of goals he scored is staggering”.



<h2>Could Inter Miami sign Allende?</h2>


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The news that Javier Mascherano and the front office received regarding Allende is somewhat positive; by allowing the player to skip the preseason, it suggests that he may be open for negotiation and that the club is willing to listen to offers for him.



However, <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/inter-miami">Inter Miami</a> are not the only ones who want to keep Allende. The former Godoy Cruz player was a key figure in the Herons’ attack, where he set a new record as the all-time leading scorer in an MLS postseason with 9 goals, and he quickly caught the attention of many clubs.



In Argentina, River Plate was among those interested in adding the forward for the upcoming season. However, they have already begun their preseason, although reports indicate they have not closed the door on a potential negotiation.



Inter Miami also face direct competition, as there is a team within MLS that wants to sign the Argentine. According to a report by ESPN, Austin FC have initiated contact with Celta Vigo to acquire the striker. The coming days will be crucial for Allende and his camp to decide what the next move in his career will be, as he has a wide range of possibilities to choose from.

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Despite no longer competing at the elite level of world soccer, <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/lionel-messi">Lionel Messi</a> and Cristiano Ronaldo remain the sport’s two most influential figures, and the recurring debate over who is the best continues. In this context, Real Madrid legend Luka Modric shared his thoughts on the matter.



In a recent interview with Corriere della Sera, the AC Milan midfielder was asked who he preferred between the Argentine and the Portuguese, providing a completely honest response. “That is a question I don’t like. They marked an era,” <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/luka-modric">Modric</a> said bluntly.



However, the Croatian did not stop there and went into detail about his choice. “I feel closer to Cristiano because I played with him; he was my teammate at Madrid,” Modric noted.



“I assure you he is not only a great footballer; he is an incredible person. People don’t know it, but he has an enormous heart, always ready to help others. And he is a simple and normal man,” the 40-year-old midfielder added when referring to what makes the Portuguese forward special.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20260103_BUS_555414_modric-ronaldo_85ed7baf.webp&amp;width=1920&amp;height=1080" alt="" class="wp-image-555468"></figure><figcaption>Luka Modric and Cristiano Ronaldo during their time at Real Madrid. (Getty Images)</figcaption></figure>



Modric and Cristiano Ronaldo shared six seasons at <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/real-madrid">Real Madrid</a>, recording 222 matches together, during which the Portuguese star scored 14 goals assisted by the Croatian. Together, they conquered 13 titles, highlighted by four Champions Leagues, three Club World Cups, one La Liga title, and one Copa del Rey.



<h2>What does Modric think about Messi?</h2>


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Modric’s decision to lean toward <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/cristiano-ronaldo">Cristiano Ronaldo</a> was logical, given their significant connection during their time together in Spain. However, the Croatian also spoke about Messi, whom he faced on numerous occasions during the Argentine’s tenure with Barcelona.



While the midfielder admitted he does not know him personally, he did not hesitate to designate the Argentine as a magnificent player. “I don’t know him personally, but I have no doubt that he is also extraordinary. As a player, he is magnificent,” Modric noted regarding Messi.



<h2>Modric broke Messi and Ronaldo’s dominance</h2>



Luka Modric is considered one of the greatest midfielders in soccer history, a status cemented by his 2018 Ballon d’Or win. The Croatian claimed the prestigious award after winning the UEFA Champions League with Real Madrid and leading Croatia to the final of the 2018 FIFA World Cup.



Furthermore, this individual accolade carries even greater significance because it ended a historic streak maintained by Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo. By 2018, the Argentine and the Portuguese stars had shared the Ballon d’Or for ten consecutive years, winning five each. However, their dominance finally came to an end with Modric’s breakthrough onto the podium.

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Real Madrid icon Luka Modric makes his stance clear in the Lionel Messi-Cristiano Ronaldo debate - Bolavip US

The debate that never seems to end in the world of soccer revolves around who is the greatest player of all time. Over the past two decades, the names most frequently mentioned have been <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/cristiano-ronaldo">Cristiano Ronaldo</a> and Lionel Messi, and opinions from former teammates or rivals often carry extra weight. This time, a former Cristiano Ronaldo teammate and Real Madrid legend made his choice clear.



In a recent interview with EDYYN, cited by Mundo Deportivo, Raul Gonzalez offered his perspective on the GOAT discussion. Despite sharing the field with some of the most iconic players in modern soccer, his answer surprised many fans.



“I was lucky to play with players like Zinedine Zidane, Cristiano Ronaldo, Ronaldo Nazario and Luis Figo, but I think Messi was the best, he was very different,” Raul said. His statement immediately stood out, given his deep ties to Real Madrid and his history alongside Ronaldo.



The names Raul mentioned defined an era at the club. All of them were key figures during different stages of his long professional career, yet when asked to choose the best player he had ever seen, he pointed to the Barcelona legend without hesitation.



<figure class="wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped">
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" data-id="555311" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20260103_BUS_555300_raul-gonzales_88a242de.webp&amp;width=1920&amp;height=1080" alt="Raul Gonzalez during a Real Madrid match." class="wp-image-555311"></figure><figcaption>Raul Gonzalez during a Real Madrid match.</figcaption></figure>
</figure>



“He made everything look easy, things you thought were impossible, he made them look simple,” Raul explained. “It was like he was playing with friends on the street.” His description focused more on <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/lionel-messi">Messi</a>’s natural feel for the game than on trophies or statistics.



<h2>Raul Gonzalez and his legacy in Madrid</h2>



Raul Gonzalez Blanco became one of the most emblematic figures in Real Madrid history after spending 16 consecutive seasons with the club. He made his first-team debut in 1994 at just 17 years old under Jorge Valdano and quickly established himself as a key presence in attack.


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His leadership defined an entire generation. Raul captained the teams for seven seasons, taking over the armband from Fernando Hierro and guiding the squad through some of its most successful years, including three UEFA Champions League titles in 2000, 2002, and 2014, with decisive goals in two finals.



Individually, his numbers placed him among the club’s all-time greats. He played a record 741 official matches for <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/real-madrid">Real Madrid</a> and scored 323 goals, holding the club’s all-time scoring record until Cristiano Ronaldo surpassed it years later.



Beyond the trophies and statistics, Raul earned legendary status through his professionalism and work ethic. He never received a red card in his entire career, a rare achievement that underscored his discipline and respect for the game. For many supporters, Raul represented the identity of Real Madrid, a captain who consistently rose to the occasion on the biggest stages.

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<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/lionel-messi">Lionel Messi</a> capped off a historic 2025 by leading Inter Miami to their first-ever MLS Cup title, defeating the Vancouver Whitecaps 3-1 in the final on December 6. Thomas Muller, who faced Messi in that championship match as a member of the Whitecaps, recently shared his perspective on what the captain could bring to <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/argentina">Argentina</a> for the 2026 World Cup.



“It would be an interesting project from my point of view if he were there,” <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/thomas-muller">Muller</a> stated in an interview with Magenta TV on December 26, 2025, when asked about Messi’s potential presence in the upcoming tournament across the United States, Mexico, and Canada.



However, the German veteran noted that Messi’s inclusion could represent a double-edged sword for Argentina, pointing to the stark contrast between the pace of MLS and the demands of elite international soccer.



“That could, of course, change the whole balance of the team—for better or for worse,” Muller remarked regarding Messi’s call-up. He further compared the levels of competition, adding: “When he got the ball [in the MLS final], he just absolutely burst into life in the right areas and initiated a lot of things. I doubt quite a bit that it would work like that off the cuff at the top international level”.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20260102_BUS_555243_messi-inter-miami-final_da700832.webp&amp;width=1920&amp;height=1080" alt="" class="wp-image-555248"></figure><figcaption>Lionel Messi during the MLS Cup final against Whitecaps. (Getty Images)</figcaption></figure>



<h2>Muller about Germany’s run at the 2026 World Cup</h2>



Following Germany’s triumph at the 2014 <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/world-cup">World Cup</a> in Brazil, the European powerhouse suffered two consecutive group-stage exits, marking a significant disappointment for one of the world’s footballing giants.


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Now retired from the international stage, the Bayern Munich legend commented on the European side’s first opponents in the 2026 World Cup: “At first glance, reading the names of the rivals, it is obvious that advancing is imperative”.



“Curaçao is a blind spot on the soccer map. With Ivory Coast, we have the African champion, and with Ecuador, the runner-up of the South American qualifying stage,” he analyzed regarding Germany’s opponents in the first round.

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<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/lionel-messi">Lionel Messi</a> capped off an incredible 2025 by leading Inter Miami to their first-ever MLS Cup title, and the club’s front office is already working to maintain that momentum for the 2026 season. 



With the departures of icons Sergio Busquets and Jordi Alba to retirement, as well as the end of loans for players like Tadeo Allende and Baltasar Rodriguez, the Herons are actively scouting reinforcements.



While they have already <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/soccer/lionel-messi-inter-miami-welcome-former-real-madrid-player-to-replace-jordi-alba">secured Sergio Reguilon as a replacement for Alba</a>, reports have emerged that Inter Miami are now targeting USMNT-eligible midfielder Matko Miljevic.



According to Argentine transfer expert Cesar Luis Merlo, <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/inter-miami">Inter Miami</a> have initiated preliminary talks with Argentine club Huracan regarding the 24-year-old playmaker. While no formal offer has been submitted yet, Miljevic is reportedly a top candidate to bolster a midfield currently undergoing a significant transition.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20260102_BUS_554929_miljevic_2827299e.webp&amp;width=1920&amp;height=1080" alt="" class="wp-image-554969"></figure><figcaption>Matko Miljevic celebrates a teammate goal. (Getty Images)</figcaption></figure>



<h2>Inter Miami are not the only ones interested in Miljevic</h2>



The Herons will face some competition for Miljevic as the Copa Sudamericana champions, Racing Club, are also reportedly interested in securing the midfielder, though Huracan has already rejected their initial offer for the player. 


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Furthermore, Brazil’s Cruzeiro has emerged as a potential suitor for the American midfielder and would be willing to purchase 80% of Miljevic’s rights, who reportedly views a move to the Brasileirao favorably.



<h2>Miljevic’s international tenure</h2>



Following several strong seasons in Argentine soccer with Newell’s Old Boys and Huracan, Miljevic earned a call-up to the USMNT under Mauricio Pochettino. The former CF Montreal midfielder made his international debut in early January 2025, when Pochettino included him in the squad for the year’s opening friendlies. 



In a standout debut, Miljevic recorded both a goal and an assist in a 3-1 victory over Venezuela. He followed that performance by logging minutes in a second friendly against Costa Rica.



However, since those initial appearances, he has not returned to the national team setup, missing both subsequent friendlies and the CONCACAF Gold Cup. Consequently, the player is seeking a move to a more competitive club environment to regain Pochettino’s attention and secure a spot in the squad for the 2026 World Cup.

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<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/lionel-messi">Lionel Messi</a> concluded 2025 having achieved the primary goal he set out for with Inter Miami. The Argentine led the Herons to their first-ever MLS Cup in franchise history following a 3-1 victory over the Vancouver Whitecaps in the final. However, his individual performance was also elite, allowing him to lead a prestigious ranking where <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/cristiano-ronaldo">Cristiano Ronaldo</a> is nowhere to be found among the top 10.



The Argentine finished the year as the sport’s top assist provider, recording a total of 29 assists in 54 appearances. This performance proved his playmaking skills remain intact and solidified his status as the all-time leader in soccer history with 407 career assists. This year, Messi recorded 26 assists with Inter Miami, with the remaining three coming while playing for the Argentine National Team.



While playmaking is not necessarily Cristiano Ronaldo’s primary strength, <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/soccer/lionel-messi-vs-cristiano-ronaldo-who-scored-more-goals-in-2025">the Argentine even surpassed the Portuguese star in the 2025 goalscoring charts</a>, recording 46 goals compared to the 41 CR7 managed across all competitions.



On the list of top assist providers, Messi is followed by Al Sadd international Akram Afif, who recorded 27 assists in 47 matches between the Qatari national team and his club. Rounding out the podium is Danish international Anders Dreyer, a key figure in San Diego FC’s inaugural MLS season, who recorded 26 assists in 74 matches.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20251231_BUS_554537_de-paul-messi-2_95063ca6.webp&amp;width=1920&amp;height=1080" alt="" class="wp-image-554538"></figure><figcaption>Rodrigo De Paul celebrates a goal assisted by Lionel Messi. (Getty Images)</figcaption></figure>



<h2>The Michael Olise assist controversy</h2>



Following the final tally to identify the top assist provider of 2025, a situation arose that sparked significant debate. The specialized data and statistics site Transfermarkt shared a ranking placing Bayern Munich forward Michael Olise in the top spot with 30 assists, but there is a catch.


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The selection criteria used by Transfermarkt differs from the standard used by other outlets. For certain platforms like this one, a player who is fouled for a penalty is credited with an assist if the subsequent spot-kick is converted. This same discrepancy affects Lamine Yamal, who is ranked third by Transfermarkt based on their specific criteria.



<h2>World’s top assist leaders in 2025</h2>



These rankings are based on direct passes leading to goals across both club and national team competitions. While specialized portals like Transfermarkt may show different totals due to including “earned penalties,” the standard sports data criteria place Lionel Messi at the top of the global leaderboard.



<figure class="wp-block-table"><table><tbody><tr><td class="has-text-align-center" data-align="center">Rank</td><td class="has-text-align-center" data-align="center">Player</td><td class="has-text-align-center" data-align="center">Teams</td><td class="has-text-align-center" data-align="center">Assists</td><td class="has-text-align-center" data-align="center">Matches</td></tr><tr><td class="has-text-align-center" data-align="center">1</td><td class="has-text-align-center" data-align="center">Lionel Messi</td><td class="has-text-align-center" data-align="center">Inter Miami / Argentina</td><td class="has-text-align-center" data-align="center">29</td><td class="has-text-align-center" data-align="center">54</td></tr><tr><td class="has-text-align-center" data-align="center">2</td><td class="has-text-align-center" data-align="center">Akram Afif</td><td class="has-text-align-center" data-align="center">Al Sadd / Qatar</td><td class="has-text-align-center" data-align="center">28</td><td class="has-text-align-center" data-align="center">47</td></tr><tr><td class="has-text-align-center" data-align="center">3</td><td class="has-text-align-center" data-align="center">Anders Dreyer</td><td class="has-text-align-center" data-align="center">San Diego FC / Denmark</td><td class="has-text-align-center" data-align="center">26</td><td class="has-text-align-center" data-align="center">74</td></tr><tr><td class="has-text-align-center" data-align="center">4</td><td class="has-text-align-center" data-align="center">Xherdan Shaqiri</td><td class="has-text-align-center" data-align="center">Basel / Switzerland</td><td class="has-text-align-center" data-align="center">25</td><td class="has-text-align-center" data-align="center">51</td></tr><tr><td class="has-text-align-center" data-align="center">5</td><td class="has-text-align-center" data-align="center">Rayan Cherki</td><td class="has-text-align-center" data-align="center">Manchester City / France</td><td class="has-text-align-center" data-align="center">24</td><td class="has-text-align-center" data-align="center">66</td></tr><tr><td class="has-text-align-center" data-align="center">6</td><td class="has-text-align-center" data-align="center">Michael Olise</td><td class="has-text-align-center" data-align="center">Bayern Munich / France</td><td class="has-text-align-center" data-align="center">24</td><td class="has-text-align-center" data-align="center">53</td></tr><tr><td class="has-text-align-center" data-align="center">7</td><td class="has-text-align-center" data-align="center">Christos Tzolis</td><td class="has-text-align-center" data-align="center">Club Brugge / Greece</td><td class="has-text-align-center" data-align="center">24</td><td class="has-text-align-center" data-align="center">67</td></tr><tr><td class="has-text-align-center" data-align="center">8</td><td class="has-text-align-center" data-align="center">Riyad Mahrez</td><td class="has-text-align-center" data-align="center">Al-Ahli / Algeria</td><td class="has-text-align-center" data-align="center">23</td><td class="has-text-align-center" data-align="center">60</td></tr><tr><td class="has-text-align-center" data-align="center">9</td><td class="has-text-align-center" data-align="center">Lamine Yamal</td><td class="has-text-align-center" data-align="center">FC Barcelona / Spain</td><td class="has-text-align-center" data-align="center">23</td><td class="has-text-align-center" data-align="center">54</td></tr><tr><td class="has-text-align-center" data-align="center">10</td><td class="has-text-align-center" data-align="center">Alexis Vega</td><td class="has-text-align-center" data-align="center">Toluca / Mexico</td><td class="has-text-align-center" data-align="center">21</td><td class="has-text-align-center" data-align="center">69</td></tr><tr><td class="has-text-align-center" data-align="center">11</td><td class="has-text-align-center" data-align="center">Bradley Barcola</td><td class="has-text-align-center" data-align="center">PSG / France</td><td class="has-text-align-center" data-align="center">21</td><td class="has-text-align-center" data-align="center">57</td></tr></tbody></table></figure>

Lionel Messi Leads World in Assists for 2025 as Cristiano Ronaldo Misses Top 10

Cristiano Ronaldo finishes 2025 with no hat tricks: How many did Lionel Messi score this year?

Cristiano Ronaldo’s Nations League win vs Lionel Messi’s MLS title: Who finished 2025 with more trophies?

Lionel Messi finishes 2025 leading ranking where Cristiano Ronaldo isn't even among top 10 - Bolavip US

<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/cristiano-ronaldo">Cristiano Ronaldo</a> and Lionel Messi have had a great 2025, where both were crowned champions during the year, with great performances. They also stood out individually, managing to enter the top ten of the highest goalscorers in 2025, leaving the race to 1,000 goals more alive than ever heading into 2026.



To achieve the milestone of being the first player in the history of soccer to reach the 1,000 goals mark, it is Ronaldo who holds the advantage and it seems that he will be the one in charge of setting this record in 2026.



The Al Nassr captain scored a brace in the victory against Al Akhdoud for the Saudi Pro League, and then <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/soccer/video-cristiano-ronaldo-scores-to-give-al-nassr-a-2-1-lead-vs-al-ettifaq-in-the-saudi-pro-league">scored in the draw against Al Ettifaq for the last match of 2025</a>. In this way, Ronaldo scored 41 goals in 2025 and has 957 goals in his professional career, leaving him only 43 goals away from setting a new record in the sport.



On the side of <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/lionel-messi">Lionel Messi</a>, the Argentine also had an incredible year with eye-popping numbers where he recorded 46 goals in 2025 across all competitions, thus totaling 896 goals in his professional career. The Inter Miami captain is the only direct competitor to the Portuguese in the race to 1,000 goals, which may have its conclusion in 2026.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20251231_BUS_554482_lionel-messi-1-2_a07eb6ea.webp&amp;width=1920&amp;height=1080" alt="Lionel Messi" class="wp-image-532666"></figure><figcaption>Lionel Messi #10 of Inter Miami CF celebrates after scoring a goal. (Getty Images)</figcaption></figure>



Despite recording impressive numbers in 2025, they remained far behind Kylian Mbappe in the year’s scoring charts. The Real Madrid forward dominated the nets, recording 66 goals across all competitions and finishing as the year’s top goalscorer.



<h2>Ronaldo and Messi’s primary objectives for 2026</h2>


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Looking ahead to 2026, Cristiano Ronaldo enters the year with a clear set of high-stakes goals. At 40 years old, and having frequently hinted at his eventual retirement, the Portuguese icon is likely facing his final opportunity to capture the one trophy that has eluded him: the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Leading Portugal into North America, Ronaldo will aim to secure the ultimate prize for his country after a lifetime of record-breaking success.



Beyond the international stage, Ronaldo remains hungry for his first official piece of silverware with Al Nassr. Since arriving in Saudi Arabia in late 2022, he has yet to lift an official trophy. While he led the club to an Arab Club Champions Cup victory in 2023, that tournament is classified as an exhibition by FIFA and the AFC.



On the other side of the legendary rivalry, Lionel Messi heads into 2026 at age 38 with a historic mission of his own. The Inter Miami captain is expected to lead Argentina as they defend their 2022 World Cup crown in what will likely be his final tournament appearance. 



In doing so, Messi will join Ronaldo in a historic feat: becoming the only players in the history of the sport to feature in six different World Cups. For the Argentine maestro, 2026 is about more than just records; it’s a chance to go out on top as a back-to-back world champion.

Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi Enter 2026 within Reach of 1,000 Career Goals

Lionel Messi vs Cristiano Ronaldo: Who scored more goals in 2025?

Cristiano Ronaldo vs Lionel Messi: How's the race to 1,000 goals entering 2026? - Bolavip US

The 2025 calendar year has officially come to a close for <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/lionel-messi">Lionel Messi</a> and Cristiano Ronaldo, marking a very successful year for both stars. The Argentine led Inter Miami to an MLS Cup title victory over the Vancouver Whitecaps, while the Al Nassr forward guided Portugal to a UEFA Nations League championship against Spain, leading many to wonder which of the two legends won more trophies this year.



The truth is that both <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/cristiano-ronaldo">Cristiano Ronaldo</a> and Lionel Messi each walked away with just a single trophy in 2025: the aforementioned Nations League title for Portugal and the MLS Cup for Inter Miami. Despite the count sitting at one apiece, both championships held immense significance for the veteran superstars.



Messi was the central figure in Inter Miami’s historic first-ever <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/mls">MLS</a> Cup victory. The Herons captain also took home the MLS Golden Boot and the regular-season MVP, becoming the first player in league history to win the award in back-to-back seasons.



While Messi had a prime opportunity to add even more silverware to his trophy case, Inter Miami fell short in the Leagues Cup final. They were shut out 3-0 by the Seattle Sounders, leaving the Argentine with just one title on the year.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20251231_BUS_554434_lionel-messi-inter-miami_10539fe9.webp&amp;width=1920&amp;height=1080" alt="messi with a medal" class="wp-image-483125" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px"></figure><figcaption>Lionel Messi with the Runners-up medal after the 2025 Leagues&nbsp;Cup&nbsp;Final. (Getty Images)</figcaption></figure>



On the other side of the globe, the Al Nassr captain led Portugal to their second <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/uefa-nations-league">UEFA Nations League</a> title, defeating Spain on penalties in the final. With this championship, Cristiano Ronaldo snapped the longest trophy drought of his legendary career, having gone four years without a title since winning the 2021 Coppa Italia with Juventus.



<h2>The debate over the MLS Conference title</h2>


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Before hoisting the MLS Cup, Lionel Messi and company dominated New York City FC in a 5-1 rout to claim the Eastern Conference title. This victory sparked a wave of debate among fans and analysts regarding whether the win counts as an official trophy or is simply a ceremonial achievement.



While the conference title is a significant milestone that is etched into the franchise’s history and celebrated with a trophy presentation, Major League Soccer does not categorize it as a major official title. Consequently, the 2025 calendar year officially concludes with both Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi walking away with one major trophy apiece.

Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo Finish 2025 Even With One Major Trophy Each

Cristiano Ronaldo wins best player award before the end of 2025: How many did Lionel Messi get this year?

Cristiano Ronaldo's Nations League win vs Lionel Messi's MLS title: Who finished 2025 with more trophies? - Bolavip US

Even at 40 years old, <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/cristiano-ronaldo">Cristiano Ronaldo</a> remains a lethal force in front of the net, a fact he reinforced by <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/soccer/video-cristiano-ronaldo-scores-to-give-al-nassr-a-2-1-lead-vs-al-ettifaq-in-the-saudi-pro-league">scoring for Al Nassr in their final match of 2025 against Al Ettifaq</a>. However, for the first time in years, the Portuguese legend finished a calendar year without recording a single hat trick, sparking immediate comparisons to Lionel Messi’s 2025 campaign.



While Ronaldo was unable to find the net three times in a single match this year breaking a 15-year streak, <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/lionel-messi">Messi</a>’s lone hat trick of 2025 came on October 18 during a 5-2 dismantling of Nashville SC. That performance helped the Argentine secure the MLS Golden Boot and paved the way for Inter Miami’s historic postseason run.



Despite 2025 not being a standout year individually for Cristiano Ronaldo, the Portuguese forward has recorded more hat tricks since his arrival in the Middle East compared to the Argentine’s tenure in the United States. 



The Al Nassr captain has registered six hat tricks since joining the Saudi club in late 2022. In contrast, Messi has only managed to score three goals in a single match on two different occasions with Inter Miami since arriving in Fort Lauderdale in mid-2023.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20251230_BUS_553989_ronaldo-al-wehda_d8d34602.webp&amp;width=1920&amp;height=1080" alt="" class="wp-image-553990"></figure><figcaption>Cristiano Ronaldo celebrates a hat trick against Al Wehda. (Getty Images)</figcaption></figure>



However, Inter Miami’s captain finished the year better individually, <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/soccer/lionel-messi-vs-cristiano-ronaldo-who-scored-more-goals-in-2025">as he scored more goals than Cristiano Ronaldo during 2025</a>. The Argentine ended the year as the world’s sixth-highest scorer with 46 goals, while the Portuguese finished in ninth place with 41 goals across all competitions.



<h2>How did both players finish 2025?</h2>


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While their individual statistics remained impressive, the collective results for both stars followed different paths this year. Cristiano Ronaldo was unable to secure a league title in Saudi Arabia, an achievement that has eluded him since his arrival, but he did find success on the international stage by leading Portugal to a UEFA Nations League title following a victory over Spain.



In contrast, Messi capped off his year with an MLS Cup title, leading Inter Miami to the first such trophy in franchise history. The Argentine served as a cornerstone of the championship run, claiming the MLS Golden Boot and the regular-season MVP award. In doing so, he became the only player in league history to win the MVP in back-to-back seasons.



Looking ahead to 2026, Cristiano Ronaldo will focus on reaching the 1,000-goal milestone—currently sitting 43 goals away—while preparing for what will likely be his final opportunity to win the World Cup with Portugal. Meanwhile, Messi will look to defend Argentina’s World Cup title while attempting to close the gap on Ronaldo as the second-highest scorer in the history of the sport.

Lionel Messi Outpaces Cristiano Ronaldo in 2025 Hat Trick Count as Ronaldo’s 15-Year Streak Ends

Great news for Lionel Messi: Inter Miami reportedly reach agreement to bring back 2025 MLS champion

Cristiano Ronaldo finishes 2025 with no hat tricks: How many did Lionel Messi score this year? - Bolavip US

Another calendar year is in the books, and while <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/lionel-messi">Lionel Messi</a> and Cristiano Ronaldo may no longer be competing in Europe’s top five leagues, their clinical nature in front of the net hasn’t faded. Both superstars remained the focal points of Inter Miami and Al Nassr in 2025, continuing to rack up eye-popping numbers.



Despite his season ending earlier than his rival’s, Lionel Messi finished 2025 as the more prolific scorer of the two. The Inter Miami captain capped off his year on December 6 by lifting the MLS Cup after a – victory over Thomas Muller’s Vancouver Whitecaps.



Messi finished the calendar year with a remarkable 46 goals across all competitions for club and country. His 2025 campaign solidified his status as the primary challenger to <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/cristiano-ronaldo">Cristiano Ronaldo</a>’s career record, bringing his total career tally to 896 official goals.



Cristiano Ronaldo, meanwhile, competed until the final days of 2025 in Saudi Arabia. After <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/soccer/cristiano-ronaldo-scores-goal-no-955-to-put-al-nassr-ahead-vs-al-akhdoud">netting a brace for Al Nassr against Al Akhdoud</a> late in the month, the Portuguese legend added one more to his tally in his final appearance of the year against Al Ettifaq.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20251230_BUS_553969_ronaldo-etiffaq_216a9e92.webp&amp;width=1920&amp;height=1080" alt="" class="wp-image-553977"></figure><figcaption>Cristiano Ronaldo celebrates his last goal of 2025. (Getty Images)</figcaption></figure>



Ronaldo finished 2025 with 41 goals, a total that allowed him to maintain his lead as the Saudi Pro League’s top scorer this season with 13 strikes. His career total now stands at 957 goals and is only 43 goals left to reach the historic 1,000-goal mark. The milestone feels like an inevitability if he maintains his current scoring rate in 2026.



<h2>The global leaderboard</h2>


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While both legends managed to convert a significant number of goals this year, their figures do not come close to those of Kylian Mbappe. With 66 goals scored across all competitions, the Frenchman will finish 2025 as the top scorer in the sport.



<div class="wp-block-columns">
<div class="wp-block-column" style="flex-basis:100%">
<div class="wp-block-columns">
<div class="wp-block-column" style="flex-basis:100%">
<figure class="wp-block-table"><table><tbody><tr><td>Player</td><td class="has-text-align-center" data-align="center">Goals</td></tr><tr><td>Kylian Mbappe</td><td class="has-text-align-center" data-align="center">66</td></tr><tr><td>Harry Kane</td><td class="has-text-align-center" data-align="center">60</td></tr><tr><td>Erling Haaland</td><td class="has-text-align-center" data-align="center">57</td></tr><tr><td>Kevin Hernandez</td><td class="has-text-align-center" data-align="center">48</td></tr><tr><td>Victor Osimhen</td><td class="has-text-align-center" data-align="center">46</td></tr><tr><td>Lionel Messi</td><td class="has-text-align-center" data-align="center">46</td></tr><tr><td>Vangelis Pavlidis</td><td class="has-text-align-center" data-align="center">45</td></tr><tr><td>Guilherme Bissoli</td><td class="has-text-align-center" data-align="center">44</td></tr><tr><td>Cristiano Ronaldo</td><td class="has-text-align-center" data-align="center">41</td></tr><tr><td>Jorge Rivera</td><td class="has-text-align-center" data-align="center">40</td></tr></tbody></table></figure>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>

Lionel Messi Outscores Cristiano Ronaldo in 2025 as Both Near 1,000-Goal Milestone

Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo placed behind Luis Diaz in prestigious 2025 ranking

Lionel Messi vs Cristiano Ronaldo: Who scored more goals in 2025? - Bolavip US

Inter Miami had a spectacular season, even finishing as MLS champions, with a roster that finally established a clear identity and chemistry. Led by <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/lionel-messi">Lionel Messi</a>, who was the most influential and decisive player throughout the campaign, the Herons maximized their potential and turned expectations into silverware. Still, beyond the star power, several key contributors played vital roles in that title run, and one of them is now set to return.



The Herons reportedly reached an agreement to bring back an <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/mls">MLS</a> Cup champion on a permanent deal. As Javier Mascherano’s tenure began on the sidelines, Inter Miami entered 2025 focused on short-term roster stability, relying on one-year contracts and loan deals. One of those moves involved goalkeeper Rocco Rios Novo, who initially returned to Argentine side Lanus after the season before negotiations reopened.



According to Argentine transfer expert German Garcia Grova, Inter Miami reached an agreement with Lanus to sign Rios Novo on a permanent basis. The club initially declined the purchase option included in his loan, but renewed talks shifted the outlook, and the 23-year-old goalkeeper is now close to finalizing his return to Fort Lauderdale.



The transfer fee has not been disclosed, but the deal reportedly includes Inter Miami acquiring 70 percent of the player’s sporting rights, with Lanus retaining the remaining 30 percent. Rios Novo is expected to sign a three-year contract that would keep him with the club through the end of the 2028 season.



<figure class="wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped">
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" data-id="553550" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20251230_BUS_553549_rios-novo_2f4d97b9.webp&amp;width=1920&amp;height=1080" alt="Rocco Rios Novo #34 of Inter Miami." class="wp-image-553550"></figure><figcaption>Rocco Rios Novo #34 of Inter Miami.</figcaption></figure>
</figure>



<h2>Rios Novo’s performance with Inter Miami</h2>



During his previous stint, Rios Novo made 20 appearances for <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/inter-miami">Inter Miami</a>, conceding 19 goals while recording five clean sheets. He logged 1,688 minutes on the field and played a role in the club’s championship run, which concluded with a 3–1 victory over Vancouver Whitecaps in the MLS Cup final.


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<h2>Potential competition in goal</h2>



While Rios Novo was away from Miami, and his return seemed unlikely at the time, Inter Miami explored alternative options at goalkeeper. That search may still remain active, as competition at the position is far from settled heading into the new season.



<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/soccer/lionel-messi-reportedly-getting-stellar-addition-as-inter-miami-near-signing-of-mls-sensation">Inter Miami are reportedly close to finalizing the signing of Dayne St. Clair</a>, a move that would significantly reshape the goalkeeping landscape. The club continue to look for reinforcements as they aim to sustain domestic success and remain competitive on multiple fronts.



According to a report from the New York Times, the 28-year-old goalkeeper is set to arrive on a free transfer after his contract expired with Minnesota United. His tenure there ended after 159 appearances, during which he consistently ranked among the league’s most reliable performers at his position, leaving the situation in Miami still very much open.

Inter Miami reportedly reach agreement to re-sign goalkeeper Rocco Rios Novo on permanent deal

Great news for Lionel Messi: Inter Miami reportedly reach agreement to bring back 2025 MLS champion - Bolavip US

Expectations for the World Cup continue to grow, especially with the tournament now just months away. As anticipation builds, several former stars have begun to share their predictions, including Toni Kroos, who named his top candidates while leaving out Lionel Messi and Argentina, and instead backing his former teammate <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/cristiano-ronaldo">Cristiano Ronaldo</a> with Portugal.



In an interview with Brazilian legend Romario, the former German midfielder excluded not only Argentina but also his own country from his list. When asked about his favorites for the 2026 World Cup, set to be played in the United States, Mexico, and Canada, Kroos surprised many by naming Spain, <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/portugal">Portugal</a>, and France as his main contenders, while also pointing to Morocco as a potential dark horse, citing their significant technical improvement in recent years.



Those national teams replaced several traditional powers in his ranking, including Germany, Brazil, and Argentina. Kroos even addressed the omission directly, saying, “Germany and Brazil are not in the top five. Sorry to Romario for not saying Brazil, but if they win it, it’s worth it.” Regarding Germany, he stated clearly that he did not view them as one of the top five candidates heading into the tournament.



Portugal’s inclusion stood out in particular. The national team has been performing at a high level, recently winning the Nations League and defeating Spain, a side widely considered one of the strongest teams in the world. Even so, Kroos’ decision to leave out Argentina, with <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/lionel-messi">Messi</a> and their status as reigning world champions, raised eyebrows given their continued success in recent international competitions.



<figure class="wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped">
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" data-id="540038" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20251230_BUS_553519_messi-argentina_7261c3a4.webp&amp;width=1920&amp;height=1080" alt="Lionel Messi of Argentina." class="wp-image-540038"></figure><figcaption>Lionel Messi of Argentina.</figcaption></figure>
</figure>



<h2>Kroos’ disagreement with the new World Cup format</h2>



Kroos also voiced his opposition to the expanded tournament format, which will feature 48 national teams for the first time. He expressed concern about how the increase could affect the overall quality of matches, especially during the group stage.


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“I’m against it,” <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/toni-kroos">Kroos</a> said. “It’s good that many nations can participate, but I think we need to take better care of the players and the quality of the tournament. With so many teams, in the group stage we’re going to see a lot of very clear matches, 4-0, 5-0, 5-1, and those are not games fans really want to watch. I care about good, high-quality matches, not a 5-0 or 6-0.”



<h2>Kroos’ legacy at the World Cup</h2>



It is worth remembering that Kroos was one of the standout figures for Germany when they won the 2014 World Cup in Brazil, defeating <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/argentina">Argentina</a> 1-0 in the final. His performance throughout that tournament was exceptional, marked by his consistency as a starter and his influence in multiple phases of play.



During that World Cup, the former Real Madrid midfielder scored two goals, provided four assists, completed passes at an 84.8 percent accuracy rate, and avoided both yellow and red cards. He registered 16 shots on goal, recovered 20 balls, and covered 82.6 kilometers across seven matches, cementing his place as one of the most complete midfielders of his generation.

Not Messi’s Argentina: Toni Kroos names Ronaldo’s Portugal among 2026 World Cup favorites

Not Messi's Argentina: Toni Kroos names Ronaldo's Portugal among 2026 World Cup favorites - Bolavip US

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