Lionel Messi said, 'I just want to play,' after Argentina's 2026 World Cup run. The 39-year-old, now in his second season with Inter Miami, is back in the Ballon d'Or hunt due to his remarkable summer. However, some wonder if his club location affects voting, especially since he's in MLS instead of Europe's top leagues.
The Ballon d'Or Evaluation Period
The Ballon d'Or is judged based on a 12-month evaluation window. This cycle runs from August 1, 2025, to July 31, 2026. During that time, Messi played 16 games for Inter Miami in all competitions, netting 13 goals and creating seven more. His performances in the Leagues Cup, U.S. Open Cup, and regular season added up to 35 matches with 32 goals and 23 assists.
Internationally, he appeared in 14 matches for Argentina, scoring 13 goals and registering seven assists. His combined stats for the evaluation period are 49 games, 45 goals, and 30 assists. However, opinions may differ because his last two Ballon d'Or wins were during his time in European leagues.
Rest and Return to Club Football
After losing the 2026 World Cup Final on July 19, Messi will stay off until at least August 12. FIFA's rule requires 21 days of rest between the tournament and club play. That means he'll sit out several early August matches, including contests against Chicago, Montreal, Columbus, and San Luis in the Leagues Cup.
His first return for Inter Miami will be a home game against Club Leon on August 12. The team then plays Nashville and Philadelphia away before their next home match on August 22. The rest period, set by FIFA and FIFPro, helps protect players after the exhausting global tournament.
A Legend's Legacy and Future
Messi holds the record for most World Cup appearances at 34, and in the 10 regular-season MLS games after August 1 last season, he scored 11 goals and made nine assists. His productivity remains staggering, both with his club and for his nation. Still, the big question is whether a player not in Europe's top leagues can win the world's biggest individual honor.
His return to action is a major moment for U.S. soccer. Fans are waiting for his boots to hit the pitch again.