Two decades into a career defined by impossible goals and unrivaled artistry, Lionel Messi continues to defy the limits of football longevity. At 37, an age when most players have either retired or faded into the background, Messi remains not only relevant but historic. Fresh off breaking the all-time assist record in football history, the Argentine icon still stands on the brink of several major milestones—each one capable of elevating his already unmatched legacy even further.

As he enters the final stretch of his professional journey, perhaps through 2028, Messi is staring down seven records that could rewrite yet another chapter in a career already overflowing with greatness.

1. The First Captain to Win Two World Cups

Messi’s crowning achievement came in 2022, when he captained Argentina to their long-awaited World Cup triumph in Qatar. It was the fairy-tale ending that sealed his GOAT status in the eyes of millions.

But the story may not be over.

If Messi leads Argentina again in 2026 and lifts the trophy, he would become the first captain in football history to win two World Cups wearing the armband. Not Pelé. Not Maradona. Only Messi would stand alone in that rarefied space.

It would be a record as symbolic as it is historic.

2. Four Straight Major International Titles as Captain

Argentina’s recent international resurgence has been nothing short of astonishing:

• Copa América 2021

• Finalissima 2022

• World Cup 2022

Messi captained all three title-winning squads, forming one of the greatest dynasties international football has seen in decades.

If Argentina captures the Copa América 2025, Messi would become the first captain ever to win four consecutive major international tournaments. This would cement his leadership legacy on par with his technical brilliance.

3. The All-Time Free-Kick King

Messi has scored 69 career free-kick goals, placing him within striking distance of the top three:

• Marcelinho – 78

• Roberto Dinamite – 75

• Juninho Pernambucano – 72

Messi needs only 10 more to become the greatest free-kick scorer ever recorded.

Considering his MLS and international workload, this may be one of the most realistic milestones in his sights.

4. The First Player With Three MLS Golden Boots

Messi claimed the 2025 MLS Golden Boot with a stunning 29-goal season. No player in MLS history has won back-to-back scoring titles, let alone three.

If Messi maintains his scoring pace and stays healthy, he could become the first-ever three-time MLS Golden Boot winner, setting a new standard for scoring dominance in the league.

5. Most Goals in a Single MLS Season

Carlos Vela’s 34-goal season in 2019 remains the benchmark. Messi finished just five goals short last year. Given how effortlessly he adapted to MLS defenses and how quickly he built chemistry with Inter Miami’s attack, breaking this record is not just possible—it’s increasingly likely.

6. Most Goal Contributions in One MLS Season

Last year, Messi shattered the combined (regular season + playoffs) record with 60 total goal contributions.

His next target?

Carlos Vela’s single regular-season record of 49 goal involvements. Messi tallied 48—needing just two more to surpass it.

One productive month in 2026 could be enough to place this achievement firmly within his grasp.

7. Most Assists in an MLS Season

Carlos Valderrama’s 26-assist masterclass from 2000 has stood untouched for nearly a quarter century.

Messi recorded nine assists in six games late last season alone. At that pace, breaking Valderrama’s longstanding record isn’t just plausible—it’s within striking range.

A Legend Still Rewriting History

Lionel Messi has long surpassed the point where he needs to prove anything. His story is already one of football’s grandest epics—told through trophies, records, and impossible moments.

Yet here he is, still chasing, still breaking, still redefining what longevity looks like in world football. If he plays through 2028, the record books will need more than just new ink—they’ll need new chapters entirely.

Messi may not be finished. And football fans aren’t ready for this story to end.

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