The hidden purpose behind Lionel Messi’s goal celebrations at Inter Miami has finally been revealed, and it makes perfect sense.
Messi has had an explosive start to life in the United States, scoring five goals in his first three games for the Florida-based club as they compete for the MLS title.
People are talking about more than just his aims. The World Cup winner’s celebrations generated debate on social media, leaving supporters perplexed about what they represented.
On his complete debut on July 25, Messi scored two goals and assisted another in a 4-1 victory over Atalanta United, and one of his celebrations perplexed fans.
The seven-time Ballon d’Or winner stood motionless and raised his outstretched arm, opening his hand, towards the sidelines. The video is embedded below.
Supporters were perplexed by the move, with some believing it was a reference to the internet cliché ‘hold my beer,’ while others linked it to Darth Vader from Star Wars.
Fortunately, Messi’s wife, Antonela Roccuzzo, clarified the dispute on Instagram, stating that the celebration was modeled after the Marvel character Thor.
Messi scored two more goals against Orlando City in the Round of 32 the following week.
Messi crossed his arms on his chest after scoring for the first time, taking homage to Black Panther’s Wakanda Forever emblem.
It’s the second time the young magician has incorporated a Marvel reference in his celebrations, prompting fans to wonder if there’s a commercial value to it.
MLS and Adidas announced a relationship with Marvel earlier this summer, which would include three separate releases.
In mid-July, the league debuted an Avengers-themed ball, which was used in the MLS All-Star game against Arsenal.
Explaining the partnership back in June, a statement from the MLS read: “Major League Soccer and adidas’ Marvel collaboration captures the unique spirit, confident attitude, and diverse environment that embodies the sport of soccer.”
With that in mind, could Messi be merely fulfilling contractual obligations with his new goal celebrations? Or perhaps Messi is just a big Marvel fan. Either way, plenty of fans around the world would argue he is a superhero himself.
