When discussing Lionel Messi’s career trophies, one would subconsciously think of Ronaldo and, in the never-ending Messi vs Ronaldo GOAT debate, every title won by either player only strengthens the argument of who the best player is and further widens the gap in terms of overall achievements.
Messi’s move to the United States has surprisingly strengthened his lead in trophy numbers. So when people ask: “How many trophies has Messi won in his career?” or “Has he won more than Ronaldo?”, the answer remains straightforward.
The only time their trophy totals were genuinely close was in 2021, when Messi was ahead by just one title. But from that point onwards, he went on a major trophy-winning run with both Argentina and Paris Saint-Germain, which dramatically widened the gap between the two players.
Lionel Messi’s Career Trophies: Number 48 and Counting
No one would have written the script of Lionel Messi’s career since leaving Barcelona better than what we’re currently witnessing.
In a narrative that sounds almost too good for Hollywood, the world’s greatest player has single-handedly changed the fortunes of David Beckham’s struggling franchise, turning league bottom dwellers into champions almost overnight.
When Messi joined David Beckham’s Inter Miami in 2023, they were the worst team in the league and had never won a trophy in their history. In the MLS Supporters Shield standings, they were ranked last, 29th of 29th. In the Eastern conference, they were second from the bottom, 14th of 15th. Before Messi’s debut, the team were in very poor form, losing their last 11 games on the bounce, a run that saw them sack head coach Phil Neville.
But fast-forward three years later, and Lionel Messi’s career trophies have grown remarkably, with success in almost every competition he has played in. It stands as a testament to his greatness and shows that wherever he goes, he doesn’t just win – he improves everyone around him.
Lionel Messi’s career trophy count has now reached a record-breaking 48 career titles following Inter Miami’s recent MLS Cup triumph – his fourth trophy with the club – serving as the ultimate testament to his transformative impact.
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Messi’s Pursuit of More Silverware at the 2026 World Cup
The draw for the 2026 FIFA World Cup took place on 5th of December, placing reigning champions Argentina in Group F, where they will face Austria, Algeria and Jordan.
Argentina’s 2022 triumph was the defining moment of Lionel Messi’s legendary career, a victory that cemented his status as the greatest footballer to ever play the game. But going on to lift a second World Cup would elevate his legacy to a level that may never be matched – a feat so extraordinary that it would silence every remaining doubt about his greatness.
As the tournament approaches, attention would once again be centred on Messi and Ronaldo as both players partake in what could be their last World Cup appearance.
Ronaldo, aiming to claim his first World Cup and equal Messi, will be hoping that this time his team enjoys better fortune than in the previous tournament. Portugal were drawn in group K, where they’ll come up against Colombia, Uzbekistan and the winner of the inter-confederation play-offs, where they could meet one of Jamaica, DR Congo or New Caledonia.
Meanwhile, Messi, entering his sixth World Cup tournament (since 2006), will be driven not by the need to prove anything, but by the desire to lead Argentina to one last historic run. With a young and talented squad around him and a group they are expected to top, the stage is set for another unforgettable chapter in his unparalleled career.
A Legacy Defined by Silverware: Lionel Messi’s Career Honours
Lionel Messi’s career trophies are the clearest indication of his dominance in this era. On the international stage, he has lifted the FIFA World Cup (2022), the Copa America (2021), and even secured Olympic Gold back in 2008.
His club career has been just as remarkable, most notably with Barcelona and later Paris Saint-Germain, where he collected 10 La Liga titles, 4 UEFA Champions Leagues, and a host of other domestic and international honours.
On top of that, a record-breaking eight Ballon d’Or and three FIFA Best player awards underline not just his brilliance, but his unmatched consistency across almost twenty years at the highest level. Just weeks ago, he became the first player in football history to record over 400+ assists, while also edging his way into the exclusive 900+ goals club.
Whether he wins the 2026 FIFA World Cup or not, one thing is certain: Messi has secured his name as the ultimate football GOAT.
Main Photo
Credit: IMAGO / Icon Sportswire
Recording Date: 06.12.2025
