Fans were left shocked by what Lionel Messi did after Inter Miami’s 6-2 win against New England Revolution.
Since arriving in the US from PSG in August 2023, the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner has been in fine fettle.
In 19 Major League Soccer (MLS) appearances in 2024, Messi has netted 20 times, three of which came within the space of 11 minutes against New England.
His hat-trick also crowned him as the club’s record goalscorer – ahead of second-place Leonardo Campana.
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This was Messi’s second hat-trick in the space of a week, having netted three goals for Argentina against Bolivia on October 16.
Despite his own goalscoring exploits, Messi has helped create chances for his teammates with ten assists, taking his goal involvement tally to a staggering 30 in 19 league appearances.
The 37-year-old’s contributions helped Miami to the Leagues Cup 2023 and the MLS Supporters’ Shield.
Messi has never been one to brag about his long list of footballing achievements, and this modesty was on show when Miami were due to lift the MLS Supporters’ Shield.
In line with tradition, it was assumed Messi would lift the trophy last night, as he is captain of the side. But in a heart-warming turn of events, he let ‘keeper Drake Callender lift the crown instead, as he has played for the club since 2020.
Miami acquired Callender’s ‘homegrown player rights’ from San Jose Earthquakes in the 2020 MLS draft pick. Callender is the club’s record appearance maker with 89 MLS games to his name.
Fans were quick to give their thoughts on Messi’s selfless act on social media.
One joked: “I’ll deactivate if Ronaldo does this in Al Nassr.”
Another commended the Argentine for his humility: “Beyond being the GOAT, man is a great teacher of values and respect.”
With a third poking fun at Cristiano Ronaldo: “Ronaldo would never be this humble.”
Inter Miami co-owner David Beckham waxed lyrical about Messi when speaking on the pitch after the triumph.
“Our players are what has made this season successful,” Beckham said in a speech.
“Our captain [Lionel Messi] has led us. Our players have led us in times where it was difficult.
“But now, tonight, we celebrate. Tomorrow, we prepare for Friday, the playoffs.”
Following the game, FIFA president Gianni Infantino announced that Miami will participate in the newly formatted FIFA Club World Cup that will take place in the city in June 2025.
The tournament will give fans of Chelsea, Real Madrid, Manchester City, Bayern Munich, PSG, Inter Milan, Porto, Benfica, Borussia Dortmund, Juventus, Atletico Madrid, and RB Salzburg a chance to see their side compete against the 37-year-old.
Topics: Lionel Messi, Inter Miami, Major League Soccer, MLS, David Beckham, FIFA Club World Cup, Cristiano Ronaldo, Fan Reactions
Luke Davies