Messi was not included in the MLS team of the year

Forward Lionel Messi of Inter Miami and the Argentine national team did not secure a spot in the MLS team of the year.

The league published the team of the 11 best players on its official website. The players were selected by representatives from the media, MLS players, and club technical staff. The chosen players represent eight countries and seven clubs that advanced to the 2023 MLS Cup playoffs, with eight clubs being selected for the first time.

Four clubs have two honorary participants each: Atlanta United, Nashville, St. Louis City, which set a record for an expansion club.

It's worth noting that forward Lionel Messi of Inter Miami was not included in team of the year. He played six matches in the league, scoring one goal and providing two assists.

Symbolic lineup:

• Goalkeeper: Roman Bürki (St. Louis)
• Defenders: Matt Miazga (Cincinnati), Tim Parker (St. Louis), Walker Zimmerman (Nashville)
• Midfielders: Luciano Acosta (Cincinnati), Thiago Almada (Atlanta), Hector Herrera (Houston Dynamo), Hany Mukhtar (Nashville)
• Forwards: Daniel Buanga (Los Angeles), Georgios Giakoumakis (Atlanta), Cucho Hernandez (Columbus Crew)