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Don’t let this week’s news around Argentina mislead you: Lionel Messi is not going anywhere from Inter Miami CF.

In fact, the iconic No. 10 reached yet another Major League Soccer landmark for the Herons in his first outing since announcing his retirement from international football.

With two assists in Saturday night’s 2-2 home draw against Atlanta United, Messi took his season tally to 30 goal contributions (18g/12a). He is now the first player in league history to hit that figure in three different campaigns.

Messi moved ahead of several star names, including LAFC’s all-time top scorer Denis Bouanga and FC Cincinnati Best XI midfielder Evander, further extending his growing collection of MLS records.

It was his corner that led to the opening goal against Atlanta. In the 32nd minute, an outswinging delivery found Casemiro’s head, and the midfielder nodded it in for his second goal in as many matches.

Later in the first half, Messi also earned a secondary assist on Luis Suárez’s go-ahead goal, threading an excellent ball through pressure to Telasco Segovia.

Messi’s world-class output has placed him firmly at the front of the race for a third consecutive Landon Donovan MLS MVP award. He had virtually sealed another 30-goal-contribution season in last week’s historic 7-1 victory over CF Montréal, when he produced four goals and one assist.

In spite of Messi’s sustained elite form, which also included a run to the 2026 FIFA World Cup final during the summer in his Argentina farewell, Atlanta claimed a badly needed point through new Designated Player Breel Embolo.

The Switzerland international, making his Five Stripes debut, converted a late penalty to level the match, and Atlanta then held off Miami’s desperate late push for a winner.

The draw is a blow for Miami as they try to reel in Eastern Conference and Supporters' Shield leaders Nashville SC, who remain 10 points clear.

The reigning MLS Cup presented by Audi champions travel to face Robert Lewandowski and Chicago Fire FC on Wednesday (8:30 pm ET | Apple TV) before a blockbuster meeting with Nashville on Saturday (7:30 pm ET | Apple TV).