Lionel Messi has had a significant portion of the MLS season sidelined. The question arises: should he still be considered for the MVP award? The answer largely hinges on how one defines "valuable." Despite missing half the season, Messi's performances in the matches he has played have been nothing short of extraordinary. He has been instrumental in propelling Inter Miami to the top of the standings, showcasing his talent with a remarkable array of goals and assists. Each time he has taken the field, he has consistently met the high expectations set for him. What makes the possibility of Messi winning the league's Most Valuable Player award particularly intriguing is that it would mark a historic moment in North American men's sports. Such an achievement would be nearly unprecedented in the major domestic leagues of Europe, with only a few exceptions. As the season progresses, the debate continues: can a player who has missed a significant amount of time still be deemed the most valuable? The answer may ultimately depend on individual perspectives on what constitutes true value in sports.