Lionel Messi’s statistics with Inter Miami are ridiculous. His highlights demand multiple viewings. But his MVP case has become a hot debate in MLS circles.

Last week, Major League Soccer announced the finalists for its end-of-season awards, and the list for the Landon Donovan MLS MVP trophy are a strong list. Each of the five finalists for MVP have been instrumental in helping their teams this season.

The Argentine won't be in MLS forever and his shock early exit from the playoffs is an opportunity to really evaluate 'the Messi effect'