• Messi stars against NY Red Bulls
• Fans think Argentine is on course for 2024 Ballon d'Or
• Messi will aim to retain Copa America in summer

WHAT HAPPENED?

The Argentinian legend was at the heart of every attack for Inter Miami as they tore their opponents to shreds in the 6-2 victory. Messi registered five assists and even got on the score sheet as he showed he remains one of the best players in the world. He has scored 10 goals and registered 12 assists for the Herons already this season - despite playing just eight games. Following the match, fans flocked to X to claim Messi is now on course for a record-extending ninth Ballon d'Or.

WHAT THE FANS ARE SAYING

Following his dismantling of NY Red Bulls, Messi took all the plaudits. @TheEuropeanLad led the calls for Messi to win the Ballon d'Or, tweeting: "I’m sorry but Lionel Messi is still the best player in the world because what you are seeing here really isn’t normal. It’s time to spread the word: 9th Ballon d’Or charge has officially started."

Barcelona fan, @IjeomahProsper, believes there was no one else close to catching Messi. They said: "There's no one stopping Messi from winning the Ballon d'or right now. What a pass 5 assists and a goal he's unique and unbelievable to watch."

@UTDTrey, meanwhile, believes the Copa America may give Messi the chance to win the award for a ninth time. He said: "People still don’t know Messi is one Copa America trophy away from another Ballon D’or. I’ve already accepted my fate."

@JosipFCB93 agreed: "Messi just needs another crazy Copa America run for a Ballon d'or number 9 push."

Max Steph, another Barcelona fan, tweeted: "Keep the Ballon d'Or ready Folks. We are coming for the 9th and then the 10th a year later. This Messi guy is still by far the best player in the World 🐐 🔥"

Jake Buckley, aka @TheMasterBucks, was simply shocked by Messi's stats, as he broke down the Miami star's insane start to the season.

We need to talk about Leo Messi in the MLS this season.

He's got 22 G/A's from 8 games.
He's got 10 Goals and 12 Assists.
He's played 655 minutes so far in the league.

That's a goal contribution..... every 29 minutes. 👀

If he wins the Copa America, he's wins the Ballon d'Or. pic.twitter.com/Mairv2B7kM

— JAKE BUCKLEY 🇦🇺 (@TheMasterBucks) May 5, 2024

THE BIGGER PICTURE

Unlike previous years, there is no clear standout nominee for the next Ballon d'Or. With serial winners Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo playing outside of the top leagues in the world they may have to rely on their international performances to stake their claim. Other potential winners - Kylian Mbappe, Jude Bellingham, Harry Kane - remain in contention for the Champions League and a strong European Championship for their respective nations may tip the award scales in their favour.

WHAT NEXT FOR MESSI?

He couldn't win number nine, could he? Messi will look to continue his scintillating form in MLS ahead of this summer's Copa America. If fans are correct, and Messi has yet another stellar tournament for Argentina, he may well find himself on top of the podium once again.