Lionel Messi Named in MLS Best XI as Galatasaray Eyes Four-Month Loan Move

Inter Miami superstar Lionel Messi has been named in Major League Soccer’s (MLS) Best XI after a record-breaking season amid reports linking him with a potential four-month loan move to Turkish side Galatasaray during the 2026 World Cup break.

The eight-time Ballon d’Or winner enjoyed a remarkable campaign, scoring a league-high 29 goals and providing 19 assists, becoming only the second player in MLS history to top both charts in a single season. His performances guided Inter Miami to one of their best-ever league finishes and earned him recognition as one of MLS’s standout players.

Messi was joined in attack by Denis Bouanga of Los Angeles FC and Anders Dreyer of San Diego FC, while Minnesota United’s Dayne St. Clair was named Goalkeeper of the Year and included in the Best XI alongside defenders Tristan Blackmon (Vancouver), Alex Freeman (Orlando City), and Philadelphia Union’s Jakob Glesnes and Kai Wagner.

In midfield, Sebastian Berhalter (Vancouver Whitecaps), Evander (FC Cincinnati), and Cristian Roldan (Seattle Sounders) completed the elite lineup, with six players St. Clair, Blackmon, Freeman, Roldan, Berhalter, and Dreyer earning their first ever Best XI selections.

Meanwhile, reports from Turkish media suggest that Galatasaray are exploring a short-term loan deal for Messi during the MLS off-season, which coincides with the 2026 FIFA World Cup. His representatives have reportedly proposed the arrangement, with Galatasaray said to be willing to cover his €10 million salary to bolster their UEFA Champions League campaign.

Neither Galatasaray, Inter Miami, nor Messi’s camp have issued official comments regarding the speculation. The Argentine star, who extended his Inter Miami contract through 2028, appears focused on maintaining top form as he continues to make history in American soccer.

Source: AFP / Turkish Media Reports

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