Like Father, Like Son
Thiago Messi, the eldest son of Inter Miami superstar Lionel Messi, has become an internet sensation after a video surfaced showing him taking a hard foul during a youth match and showing absolutely no fear. The clip, which has spread rapidly across social media, captures the 13-year-old bouncing straight back up after a robust challenge, displaying the same resilience that has defined his father’s legendary career.
The incident occurred during an Inter Miami youth academy fixture, where Thiago was playing for the club’s junior side. After being clipped by an opposing defender in a challenge that drew audible reactions from spectators, the youngster got to his feet without complaint or hesitation, immediately looking for the next pass.
The Messi DNA
Those who have watched Thiago develop have noted that he shares more than just a surname with his father. His dribbling style, low center of gravity, and ability to ride challenges bear a striking resemblance to the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner. Scouts have reportedly taken notice of his progress in the Inter Miami academy system, though the club remains protective of the youngster’s development.
The hard foul video has drawn comparisons to the treatment Lionel Messi himself endured throughout his career, particularly during his early years at Barcelona when defenders routinely targeted him with heavy tackles. The elder Messi famously never shied away from contact, and his son appears to have inherited that same mentality.
Growing Up in the Spotlight
Thiago has grown up in the unique position of being the first-born son of arguably the greatest footballer of all time. He has been seen celebrating goals with his father at Camp Nou, Parc des Princes, and now at Chase Stadium in Miami. The transition to life in South Florida appears to have been smooth for the Messi family, with Thiago and his brothers reportedly enrolled in local schools and enjoying a degree of normalcy unusual for children of such famous parents.
As the 2026 World Cup approaches, Lionel Messi is preparing to lead Argentina’s title defence, having captained the side to glory in Qatar in 2022. Whether Thiago will one day follow in his father’s footsteps onto the senior international stage remains to be seen, but if his latest viral moment is any indication, the mentality is certainly there.
Source: MARCA