Luciano Acosta had a 2023 to remember. 19 goals & 12 assists are impressive stats for a forward, let alone an attack-minded player. Hence, it’s no surprise that the FC Cincinnati star was crowned the League’s MVP last season. However, this year there is a massive threat to the award with the arrival of Lionel Messi. The soccer icon in just half a season helped Inter Miami win their first piece of silverware. Acosta has made a surprising comment about the Argentine playmaker with whom he swapped shirts during the US Open Cup 2023.

Speaking of his countryman, Acosta jokingly said, “It’s better that Leo [Messi} arrived at the half of the season or he would have won MVP.” The center forward recognizes the quality of his countryman. However, what could benefit him is the fact that team achievements are just as important as individual stats. Lionel Messi’s teammates have a significant role in his performances and this was pointed out by Thierry Henry.

Speaking of Messi’s challenges in the MLS, the Frenchman said, “You guys will know, like, the best players are often in Europe. So, you will have those guys playing there and if you don’t have that type of talent, the level will drop.” Last year FC Cincinnati finished 1st in the Eastern Conference while Inter Miami was 14th with less than half of the points (69 vs 34). So, if Acosta was to retain his MVP award, he would need a similar performance from his teammates again.

One competition where Luciano Acosta & Lionel Messi were expected to join forces was Copa America. FC Cincinnati star was one of the best-performing Argentine players this season. However, in a new twist, he could be set to represent a different country.

Acosta ‘in the process’ of ditching Lionel Messi & Co. for the USMNT!

Despite bagging 31 goal contributions in 36 appearances last season, the MLS star’s performances haven’t caught the eye of the Argentine selectors. However, as teams are submitting their squads for Copa America, Acosta has expressed his desire to represent the USMNT. In a recent press conference, he spoke of the potential switch, “No, we’re in the process. We’re in the process. It’s coming along slowly. Even though I really want to be there, we have to take it one step at a time. We have to be patient. Everything has its own time. And well, maintaining the usual calm. I even tried to tell the president to help.”

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For the USMNT, bringing in Luciano Acosta could be a masterstroke. The 29-year-old boasts of a wealth of experience and has the confidence of coming off from his best-ever season. Moreover, after not receiving a single cap for the Albiceleste, the experienced midfielder will have a point to prove.

Will Lionel Messi win the MVP award this season? Have your say in the comments below.

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