Lionel Messi has once again proven why he is considered one of the greatest footballers of all time, both on and off the pitch. In the latest edition of EA Sports FC 25, Messi tops the MLS Team of the Season (TOTS) with an impressive 97 Overall Rating (OVR). This accolade highlights his exceptional performance in the virtual and real-world soccer arenas.

Messi's Exceptional Attributes

Messi's virtual card boasts incredible attribute ratings:

• 98 Dribbling
• 97 Passing
• 96 Shooting
• 93 Pace

While his Physical (82) and Defending (45) attributes are slightly lower, they do not detract from his overall dominance on the field.

Impact on Inter Miami

Despite Inter Miami's rocky start to the season, currently ranking sixth in the league, Messi's contributions have been pivotal. He has played 13 matches, scoring 10 goals and providing 5 assists. His performance has been decisive in several key matches, including:

• 2-1 wins over Atlanta and Philadelphia
• 2-2 draw against New York City
• 1-1 draw against Toronto

Even in Miami's recent 5-1 victory over Columbus, Messi's two goals and two assists were crucial in turning what could have been a draw into a dominant win.

The Full MLS TOTS Lineup

Here is the complete MLS Team of the Season in EA FC 25:

1. Lionel Messi -- Inter Miami (97 OVR)
2. Luis Suárez -- Inter Miami (96 OVR)
3. Christian Benteke -- D.C. United (96 OVR)
4. Evander -- FC Cincinnati (96 OVR)
5. Steven Moreira -- Columbus Crew (96 OVR)
6. Ricard Puig -- Los Angeles Galaxy (95 OVR)
7. Emil Forsberg -- New York Red Bulls (95 OVR)
8. Jordi Alba -- Inter Miami (95 OVR)
9. Jackson Ragen -- Seattle Sounders FC (94 OVR)
10. Kristijan Kahlina -- Charlotte FC (94 OVR)
11. Brad Guzan -- Atlanta United (93 OVR)
12. Ryan Gauld -- Vancouver Whitecaps FC (92 OVR)

Rivalry Continues

Messi's archrival, Cristiano Ronaldo, also secured a 97 OVR card as part of the Saudi Pro League TOTS, matching Messi once again. Ronaldo leads his league's TOTS ahead of notable players like Karim Benzema, Moussa Diaby, and N'Golo Kanté.

Rest of the World TOTS

In keeping with tradition, EA Sports released a 'Rest of the World' TOTS to highlight standout performances globally. Atlético Peñarol's Leonardo Fernández and Ulsan Hyundai FC's Ko Seung-beom lead this squad with 96 OVR each.

Lionel Messi's inclusion in the MLS Team of the Season underscores his enduring legacy and unmatched skill, making him a cornerstone of both real and virtual soccer worlds.