In a heartwarming chapter of sports legacy, Thiago Messi, the firstborn son of Argentine football icon Lionel Messi, graced the pitch for the very first time in the “Newell’s Cup” held in the countryside city of Rosario. At just 12 years old, Thiago donned the prestigious No. 10 jersey, a number synonymous with greatness in the world of football, as he played for an Inter Miami youth team. The tournament, which serves as a rite of passage for aspiring young athletes, saw Thiago’s team face off against local favorites Newell’s Old Boys, culminating in a narrow 1-0 defeat—a bittersweet beginning to his footballing journey.
The significance of this debut extends far beyond the statistics of the game. It is steeped in family tradition, as Lionel Messi himself took his first steps in football at the same Argentinian club, mere kilometers away from where Thiago experienced his initial play. In attendance to cheer him on was not just his mother, Antonela Roccuzzo, but an entourage of family, including grandparents Jorge Messi and Celia Cuccittini. Their support underscores the importance of familial bonds in shaping moments that define a young athlete’s career, shielding them with love and pride even amidst competition.
Thiago’s debut also featured a special connection on the field. He played alongside his close friend, Benjamín Suárez, the son of renowned Uruguayan striker Luis Suárez. The duo’s friendship adds another layer to their experiences on the pitch, as they not only represent a new generation of footballers but also carry the aspirations and legacies of their famous fathers. Watching his son play at a prestigious tournament must have struck a chord with Suárez, who shares a close bond with Messi, further deepening the camaraderie and support within the world of youth football.
Following the early exit of Inter Miami CF from the MLS playoffs, both Messi and Suárez have reclaimed some time in their homeland, attending Thiago’s match and even witnessing another friendly game involving Inter Miami’s U13 team alongside Unión. These moments of togetherness amid challenging times reflect the shared journey of athletes as they navigate the ups and downs of competitive sports while supporting the next generation. Additionally, the imminent arrival of a new coach, Javier Mascherano, for the upcoming MLS season suggests a pivot in strategy and growth, which could further influence the landscape of youth training programs in America.
As Thiago Messi begins this new path in the world of football, he embodies not only the legacy of his father but also the hope and potential that exists within youth sports across America and beyond. The Newell’s Cup serves as more than just a tournament—it’s a celebration of unity, aspiration, and the transformative power of sport. Thiago, as the torchbearer of his family’s legacy, stands at the threshold of a promising future, where every game played is a step closer to achieving his dreams amid the cheers of his loved ones.