Rewarded on Monday with a record eighth Ballon d’Or, Argentinian Lionel Messi did not receive the prize for best newcomer in MLS, awarded Thursday to Atlanta United’s Greek Giorgos Giakoumakis.
The 36-year-old world champion, who signed with Inter Miami this summer, only came in second place despite his victory in the Leagues Cup, a competition between American and Mexican teams. His team, however, failed to qualify for the play-offs of the United States championship. The former Barcelona No.10 was overtaken by Greek international Giakoumakis (19 caps), who plays in Atlanta. The 28-year-old striker, who moved to Celtic Glasgow (2021-2023) after spending most of his career in Greece, has scored 17 goals this season.
