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MLS·ANALYSIS·July 16, 2026 07:14 PM ET

Pundit says Messi's drive for minor trophies sets him apart from Kane, Bellingham

Cites Leagues Cup, Concacaf Champions Cup pursuits

Wire Report IntelligenceUpdated Jul 161 min read
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Via @MattDoyle76 on X

What happened: Broadcaster Matt Doyle argued that Lionel Messi's pursuit of secondary trophies, including the Leagues Cup and the Concacaf Champions Cup, separates him from stars like Harry Kane and Jude Bellingham. Doyle said Messi "always pushes himself to higher and higher levels" rather than settling once he reaches elite status.

Why it matters: The comparison arrives days after Messi and Bellingham renewed their rivalry in a World Cup semifinal, feeding an ongoing debate over which stars keep raising their ceiling versus settling for what they've already won. Doyle frames Messi's MLS-era pursuits with Inter Miami as evidence of that continued drive, contrasting it with England's biggest names.

What to watch: Whether Kane, Bellingham or England supporters respond to the comparison remains to be seen as both players continue their club and international commitments.

Sources

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