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MLS Awards: Messi Dominates, Young Stars Emerge
7 Nov
Summary
- Messi leads MLS MVP race with stellar stats.
- Cavan Sullivan and Julian Hall vie for young player award.
- B.J. Callaghan and Ryan Richter are top coach contenders.
The 2026 Major League Soccer regular season is concluding, with the league's year-end awards generating significant buzz. Lionel Messi of Inter Miami is widely expected to win the Landon Donovan MVP award, having posted remarkable numbers with 26 goals and 16 assists. His contributions have been vital to Inter Miami's success.
In the race for Young Player of the Year, 17-year-old Cavan Sullivan of the Philadelphia Union is a frontrunner, impressing with both stats and tenacity. Julian Hall of Red Bull New York is also a strong contender, having become a key player for his team. The Coach of the Year award features a close contest between B.J. Callaghan of Nashville SC, who led his team to the Supporters' Shield, and Ryan Richter of the Philadelphia Union, for his midseason turnaround.
Antoine Griezmann has made a significant impact for Orlando City SC since his July arrival, earning consideration for Newcomer of the Year with 14 goals and eight assists in just 17 games. His contributions helped Orlando secure a playoff spot, overcoming their previous standing outside the postseason.
