Move over Messi: Why Luciano Acosto is MLS’ Most Valuable Player

In an MLS season dominated by Lionel Messi, another Argentinian midfielder is set to be named league MVP

The best player in Major League Soccer this season has been an Argentine, but not that Argentine. While 2023 will forever be remembered as the year Lionel Messi changed the American soccer landscape by joining Inter Miami, compatriot Luciano Acosta has shone brightest of all for the best team in the league.

FC Cincinnati finished dead last in each of their first three seasons as an MLS franchise. Their improvement since then, however, has been dramatic. Acosta has been the central component around which Pat Noonan's Supporters' Shield-winning team revolves. His 17 goals and 10 assists are should earn the 29-year-old this year's MVP award.