Lionel Messi’s eldest son, Thiago Messi, went viral following a cheeky incident during Sunday’s Inter Miami presentation.
Messi was unveiled in front of a 20,000-strong audience at PNK Stadium. Spectators braved downpours and lightning to see the legendary forward’s debut, which had been postponed owing to bad weather.
The seven-time Ballon d’Or winner was introduced with former Barcelona teammate Sergio Busquets, who has extended his contract with Inter Miami until 2025.
What did Messi say during his introduction at Inter Miami?
“I really want to start training, to compete,” Messi remarked after being introduced as “America’s number 10,” “the world’s best number 10.” I have the same passion to compete, to win, and to help the club improve that I have always had.
“I am very happy to have chosen to come to play in this city with my family, to choose this project, and I am confident that we will have a great time.”
“We’re going to have a great time, and some very good things are going to happen.”
Meanwhile, during the introduction, Inter Miami co-owner David Beckham told Messi, “We are so proud that you have chosen our club for this next stage in your career – and we’re also delighted to welcome your beautiful family.”
Thiago Messi nutmegs his father during the Inter Miami presentation.
Thiago couldn’t stop himself from nutmegging Messi as he basked in the crowd’s affection and adoration.
Thiago raised his arms in celebration as Messi looked around. Those who witnessed the 10-year-old’s cheeky nutmeg were overjoyed.
The video has since gained popularity on social media and can be viewed here:
Thiago had every cause to be pleased. After all, not many individuals can say they cheated the GOAT.
What else happened during Messi’s introduction at Inter Miami?
Speaking of goats, a real one was brought to Messi’s Inter Miami presentation.
Outside the PNK Stadium, the animal was seen posing for selfies with Messi fans.
Where does Inter Miami stand in the MLS standings?
To say that Inter Miami desperately needs Messi right now would be an understatement.
With only 18 points from their first 22 games, the Florida-based club is currently at the basement of the MLS Eastern Conference.
Inter Miami has not won a league match since a 2-1 victory against New England on May 14. Their winless record now stands at 11 games following Saturday’s 3-0 loss to St. Louis City.
Former Barcelona and Argentina manager Gerard “Tata” Martino was named the team’s new head coach at the end of June, following Beckham’s former teammate Phil Neville.
The 60-year-old Argentine coach will be fully aware that Busquets, and especially Messi, have the capacity to completely transform the club’s fortunes.
According to Wayne Rooney, Messi will struggle in MLS.
DC United manager Wayne Rooney, on the other hand, has warned Messi that he “won’t find it easy” in Major League Soccer.
“Everything is set for him,” Rooney was reported by ESPN as saying. “He’s brought all his friends!” [Sergio] Busquets and Jordi Alba have joined Inter Miami, and [Andres] Iniesta may follow. Luis Suarez as well. Messi likes and trusts his coach [Inter Miami boss Tata Martino]. The MLS attracting Messi is enormous, especially given what’s going on in Saudi.
“He’s not going to like it here. It may sound absurd, but newcomers to the league quickly discover that it is a difficult league. The traveling, the various conditions in different cities, and the high level of energy and intensity on the field.”
