Thiago Messi made his debut for Inter Miami’s U-13 team at the Newell’s Cup, a youth football tournament held in Rosario, Argentina. He wore his father’s iconic number 10 shirt during the match on Monday. The Newell's Cup, in its 10th edition, sees eight teams from North and South America compete in a five-day tournament.
Father Lionel Messi, who was born in Rosario, spent five years at the youth academy of Newell’s Old Boys before moving to Barcelona’s famed La Masia academy at the age of 13. Messi Sr. has since had an illustrious career, winning 13 league titles and four Champions League trophies. He also captained Argentina to World Cup glory in 2022 and lifted the Copa America in 2021 and 2024.
Thiago’s Performance and Family Support
Although Lionel Messi was not present at the game, a banner of him kissing the World Cup hung in the stadium, watching over his son. Thiago’s mother, Antonela Roccuzzo, along with his grandparents, Jorge and Celia Messi, cheered for him from the stands. Despite Thiago’s impressive display, Inter Miami’s U-13 team suffered a 1-0 defeat to the host team, Newell's Old Boys.
Thiago was not the only notable player on the field. He was joined by Benjamin Suarez, the son of former Barcelona and Uruguay striker Luis Suarez, who is now also at Inter Miami. Both Messi and Suarez shared a successful period at Barcelona before reuniting at Inter Miami.
Inter Miami’s Future and Messi’s Absence
Although Messi did not attend Thiago’s match, he, along with his close friend Suarez, is currently in Rosario after Inter Miami’s elimination from the MLS playoffs. The duo also attended a friendly game between Inter Miami’s U-13 team and Union.
Meanwhile, Inter Miami is undergoing changes, as they recently announced the hiring of Javier Mascherano, former Argentina and Barcelona star, to replace Gerardo Martino as head coach.
Messi’s Return to India
In addition to Thiago’s football debut, Messi’s wife Antonela was spotted signing autographs for fans at the stadium. Messi is also expected to return to India in 2025, marking his first trip to the country in 14 years.
Looking Ahead: Messi and Argentina’s Upcoming Friendly
In another exciting development, Lionel Messi and the Argentina national football team are scheduled to play an international friendly match in Kerala. The state’s sports minister, V Abdurahiman, confirmed that the financial support for organizing this high-profile event would be provided by local merchants.
“All the financial assistance for organising this high-profile football event will be provided by the merchants of the state,” Abdurahiman told media.
