Lionel Messi is but a week into his 2025 season and already bossing overmatched opponents in Major League Soccer.
He has played three official games against MLS foes this year; he has scored or created four goals, including a banger Tuesday night against Sporting Kansas City.
He has starred in sub-zero temperatures and at home in South Florida, in the CONCACAF Champions Cup and in league play, at full strength and with his team down to 10 men. He has wriggled out of throngs of defenders, caressed clever passes, and found the back of the net with both feet.