What are the records Lionel Messi could achieve during 2025 FIFA Club World Cup debut with Inter Miami?

Inter Miami is set to kick off their first-ever FIFA Club World Cup campaign on Saturday, June 14, at the Hard Rock Stadium, taking on Egyptian giants Al Ahly. The Herons, led by none other than Lionel Messi, enter the 2025 tournament placed in Group A alongside Al Ahly, FC Porto, and Palmeiras.

Lionel Messi’s stellar form ahead of global stage

The Argentine legend has enjoyed a strong 2025 season so far, recording 10 goals and 5 assists in just 13 appearances for Inter Miami. As Messi leads the American side into uncharted territory, all eyes will be on whether the eight-time Ballon d'Or winner can etch his name deeper into Club World Cup history.

Tough road ahead for Inter Miami

Despite Messi’s brilliance, Inter Miami faces a daunting path in this expanded Club World Cup format. With fierce competition from seasoned clubs like Porto and Palmeiras, Miami's chances of a deep tournament run appear slim. Nevertheless, Messi’s individual pursuit of history remains a captivating storyline.

Records Lionel Messi could break at Club World Cup 2025

1. Top all-time goal scorer

Cristiano Ronaldo currently holds the all-time Club World Cup scoring record with seven goals. Messi, who has netted five goals in five Club World Cup appearances, needs just two more to surpass the Portuguese star. With Ronaldo not participating this year, the door is open for Messi to claim this prestigious record.

2. Oldest goal scorer in tournament history

At 38 years old, Messi is poised to break another unique milestone by becoming the oldest player to score in the competition. The current record belongs to Javier Zanetti, who scored at 37 years, 4 months, and 5 days in 2010. Should Messi find the back of the net, he would take this title. Although veterans like Luka Modric could also challenge for the honor.

3. Most assists in Club World Cup history

Messi has only one assist in the competition, trailing Neri Cardozo and Shoma Doi, both with five. To equal the record, Messi needs four more assists; five would secure it outright. With his MLS assist rate currently at one every 204.9 minutes, a standout performance will be crucial.

4. Most combined goals and assists

Cristiano Ronaldo’s combined tally of 10 goal contributions remains the benchmark. Messi, with six, needs four more to tie and five to lead. Tied with Al-Hilal’s Salem Al-Dawsari at six, Messi’s three guaranteed group stage matches give him a strong shot at this record.