Thiago Messi Begins Youth Football Journey, Mirroring Father Lionel’s Path

Prior to his transfer to Barcelona, Lionel Messi was part of the academy at Newell’s Old Boys. It is often anticipated that children will emulate their parents when the latter are celebrated as among the most exceptional footballers to ever play the sport. This appears to be the trajectory for Thiago Messi, the son of Lionel, an eight-time recipient of the Ballon d’Or award. On Monday, 12-year-old Thiago represented Inter Miami’s under-13 squad in the Newell’s Cup, held in Rosario, Argentina. He wore the number 10 shirt, famously associated with his father. This youth competition marks its tenth iteration, featuring eight clubs from both North and South America contending over a five-day period. Lionel, his father, was born in Rosario, the home city of Newell’s Old Boys. He spent five years within the Argentine club’s academy system before transferring to Barcelona’s renowned La Masia youth academy at the age of 13. The 37-year-old athlete, whose career predominantly unfolded at Barcelona before transfers to Paris St-Germain and subsequently Inter Miami, has accomplished remarkable feats in football, securing 13 league championships and the Champions League trophy four times. Furthermore, he led Argentina as captain to victory in the 2022 World Cup and achieved Copa America triumphs in both 2021 and 2024. While Lionel Messi was not physically present at the Jorge B Griffa Sports Complex, a banner depicting him kissing the World Cup trophy overlooked Thiago’s participation. From the spectator stands, Thiago’s mother, Antonela Roccuzzo, along with his grandparents, Jorge and Celia Messi, observed as Inter Miami suffered a 1-0 defeat against the host team, Newell’s Old Boys. Benjamin Suarez, the son of Inter Miami forward Luis Suarez, also played alongside Thiago. Inter Miami is scheduled to compete again on Tuesday, facing Uruguayan club Penarol 91.