Like father, like son…
Lionel Messi’s eldest son, Thiago, became an internet sensation after a playful moment during the presentation of his father at Inter Miami on Sunday.
Despite adverse weather conditions, a capacity crowd of 20,000 fans eagerly awaited Messi’s unveiling at the PNK Stadium, braving downpours and lightning delays.
Eventually, the legendary forward was presented with the number 10 shirt of Inter Miami, while being joined by his former Barcelona teammate Sergio Busquets, who has also signed with the Major League Soccer side until 2025.
Thiago’s adorable involvement during the event added an extra touch of charm to the occasion, capturing the attention of fans and going viral.
What did Messi say during his Inter Miami presentation?
Introduced as “America’s number 10, the world’s best number 10,” Messi said: “I really want to start training, to compete. I have the same desire that I always had to compete, to want to win, to help the club continue to grow.
“I am very happy to have chosen to come to play in this city with my family, to choose this project and I have no doubt that we are going to enjoy it a lot.
“We are going to have a good time and very good things are going to happen.”
Meanwhile, Inter Miami co-owner David Beckham told Messi during the presentation: “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 dad during Inter Miami presentation
During the moment when Lionel Messi was enjoying the affection and admiration of the crowd, his son Thiago playfully nutmegged him.
As Messi turned his head, he noticed Thiago raising his arms in celebration. Those in the crowd who caught sight of the 10-year-old’s cheeky move were thoroughly entertained.
The video capturing the incident has since gone viral on social media, and you can watch it here:
Little Thiago had every right to celebrate. Not many people can say they’ve nutmegged the GOAT, after all.
What else happened during Messi’s Inter Miami presentation?
Speaking of goats, someone genuinely brought a real goat to Messi’s Inter Miami presentation.
The animal was seen posing for photos alongside Messi fans outside the PNK Stadium.
Where are Inter Miami in the MLS table?
The impact Lionel Messi can have on Inter Miami cannot be overstated given their current situation.
The team is currently positioned at the bottom of the MLS Eastern Conference, having accumulated only 18 points from their first 22 matches. I
nter Miami’s league victory drought has extended since their 2-1 win over New England on May 14th.
Their winless streak reached 11 games following a 3-0 loss to St. Louis City on Saturday.
The acquisition of Messi brings hope for a turnaround in fortunes and a much-needed boost to Inter Miami’s struggling campaign.
Former Barcelona and Argentina manager Gerard “Tata” Martino was named as the team’s new head coach at the end of June after replacing Beckham’s former teammate Phil Neville.
The Argentine coach, 60, will be acutely aware that Busquets and, in particular, Messi have the ability to transform the club’s fortunes.