Football has witnessed countless magical moments from Lionel Messi, but his latest achievement may be one of the most special. During Inter Miami’s dominant 5-1 win over New York City FC in the MLS Eastern Conference final, the Argentine legend delivered the 405th assist of his career, officially becoming the male footballer with the most assists in history.
This moment didn’t come from a dramatic long ball or a flashy trick. It came from something far more “Messi-like”, a smart turn, a perfect touch, and a pass that sliced the defence open. Receiving Jordi Alba’s volleyed ball with his back to goal, Messi turned smoothly and slipped a clever pass to young Mateo Silvetti, who finished the chance with calm precision. With that, Messi moved past Ferenc Puskas (404 assists) and etched his name into yet another page of football history.
A Career Full of Giving 405 Assists and Counting
While most players are remembered for goals, Messi has rewritten what it means to be a complete footballer. His numbers are staggering:
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405 assists, the most in football history
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896 goals, one of the highest tally ever recorded
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1136 matches played across his career
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24 assists this season alone
He isn’t just a goalscorer, a creator, or a leader, he’s all three at once.
All-time assists list (top 10)
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Lionel Messi – 405
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Ferenc Puskas – 404
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Pele – 369
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Johan Cruyff – 358
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Thomas Muller – 352
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Luis Suarez – 317
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Kevin De Bruyne – 316
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Angel Di Maria – 313
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Cristiano Ronaldo – 304
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Luis Figo – 283
Age Is Just a Number for Messi
At 38 years old, Messi continues to break milestones with a calmness that almost feels unreal. Most players his age are preparing for retirement. Messi, meanwhile, is playing with joy, mentoring young talents, and carrying Inter Miami to heights they’ve never reached before.
His latest milestone also includes the three assists he produced at the 2022 World Cup, where he guided Argentina to the trophy and completed one of the greatest football stories ever told.
Mascherano Praises the Unity Behind Miami’s Success
Inter Miami coach Javier Mascherano spoke passionately after the team’s win, highlighting not just Messi’s brilliance but the collective spirit within the squad. He praised their unity, belief, and brotherhood, especially over the past two months.
“We’ve reached the end of the season with a group that knows where it wants to go,” he said. “Everyone is pulling in the same direction.”
Their reward? A place in the MLS Cup final, where Miami will face the Vancouver Whitecaps on December 6.
Messi’s 405th assist is not just a statistic, it’s another reminder of why he remains the most complete footballer the world has ever seen. His vision, understanding of the game, and unselfish desire to create for others set him apart.
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