Thiago Messi steps into Lionel's Newell’s Cup legacy.© (@psg_chief)
Thiago Messi, the 12-year-old son of football legend Lionel Messi, shows signs of following in his father’s illustrious footsteps. Recently, Thiago took to the pitch for Inter Miami’s under-13 team in the Newell’s Cup in Rosario, Argentina, a prestigious youth tournament. Wearing the iconic number 10 shirt, just like his father, Thiago made his mark as part of the team competing in the 10th edition of the tournament, which brings together eight clubs from North and South America.
The tournament spans five days and is a significant event in the youth football calendar, and his family closely watched Thiago’s participation. Lionel Messi, born in Rosario, spent his early years at Newell’s Old Boys academy before moving to Barcelona’s La Masia academy at 13. Now 37 years old, Messi Sr. is regarded as one of the greatest footballers of all time, having won 13 league titles, four Champions League trophies, and most recently, captaining Argentina to victory in the 2022 World Cup, as well as lifting the Copa America in 2021 and 2024.
Although Lionel Messi was not present at the match, a banner featuring him kissing the World Cup hung in the background, a symbolic gesture of support. Thiago’s mother, Antonella Roccuzzo, and his grandparents, Jorge and Celia Messi, were in attendance, cheering from the stands as Inter Miami’s under-13 team faced Newell’s Old Boys. Unfortunately, Thiago and his teammates suffered a narrow 1-0 defeat.
Thiago was not alone on the field, as Benjamin Suarez, the son of Inter Miami striker Luis Suarez, also played alongside him. Inter Miami’s under-13 team will return to action on Tuesday against Uruguayan club Penarol 91 as the tournament continues.
Thiago Messi’s early steps in football are certainly being closely monitored, with many eager to see if the young talent can follow in the footsteps of his legendary father and create his legacy in the football world.
