Why Thomas Muller, Lionel Messis Latest Trophies Dont Count Towards Incredible Records

A debate has emerged regarding the counting of certain trophies in the career totals of high-profile footballers. This discussion centers on the distinction between official competitive honors and those won in exhibition or all-star style matches. The clarification affects the perceived standing of players like Thomas Müller and Lionel Messi in the historical record books.

Main News

Thomas Müller of Bayern Munich recently participated in the Audi Summer Tour, where his team won a match described as a friendly. This victory does not contribute to his official tally of 32 career trophies with Bayern Munich. The count of 32 includes major domestic, European, and international club competitions.

Similarly, Lionel Messi’s recent success in the 2023 Leagues Cup with Inter Miami CF is recognized as an official competition. However, his involvement in a post-season MLS All-Star game, which functioned as a skills challenge against Arsenal, is not counted as an official trophy. This distinction is maintained by statistical bodies that track player and team honors.

The core issue is the classification of matches. Official trophies are awarded for winning league, cup, and continental tournaments governed by football associations. Exhibition matches, friendly tours, and all-star games, while sometimes involving competitive elements, are not considered part of a team’s official honor roll.

Summary

The career trophy counts for footballers Thomas Müller and Lionel Messi are subject to specific classification rules. Matches won during friendly tours, such as Bayern Munich’s Audi Summer Tour, are not counted toward a player’s official silverware.

Lionel Messi’s Leagues Cup victory is considered an official trophy, but his win in a skills-based MLS All-Star game is not. Statistical trackers maintain a clear division between competitive honors and exhibition match outcomes.

This ensures consistency in historical comparisons between players across different eras and leagues. The records reflect success in tournaments that form the core competitive calendar for professional clubs.

FAQs

Why doesn’t Thomas Müller’s recent win count toward his trophy total?
The match was part of a pre-season friendly tour, not an official competition. Only trophies from sanctioned league, cup, and international tournaments are counted in official records.

Is the Leagues Cup that Lionel Messi won considered an official trophy?
Yes, the Leagues Cup is recognized as an official tournament organized by MLS and Liga MX. It is distinct from all-star or exhibition matches.

What types of matches are not counted as official trophies?
Friendly matches, pre-season tours, and all-star games are typically not counted. The focus for official records is on competitive fixtures within a structured league or cup format.