Lionel Messi has no shortage of motivation in 2025. His Inter Miami CF won the Supporters' Shield last season, setting an MLS single-season record for points in the process, before being humbly knocked out of the playoffs in Round 1.

Argentine midfielder Rodrigo De Paul has agreed to contract terms with Inter Miami. A person familiar with the negotiations told The Associated Press about the deal on Wednesday on condition of anonymity because the signing has not been announced.

Rodrigo De Paul will reportedly first join on loan this summer as the Herons add a major reinforcement to the midfield.

Inter Miami head coach Javier Mascherano said he would prefer that Lionel Messi and Jordi Alba not participate in the 2025 MLS All-Star Game, insisting players should be resting amid the ongoing regular season.

Inter Miami is looking to extend their winning streak after the Club World Cup as Lionel Messi is also aiming to set a new record.

This article was originally published on www.si.com as Lionel Messi Eyes Career-First Milestone in Race to Score Against Every MLS Side. In just two years in a pink shirt, Lionel Messi is closing in on scoring against every MLS team, with FC Cincinnati next up for the Inter Miami forward.