Thiago Messi’s debut at the Newell’s Cup in Rosario became another bright chapter in his family’s football legacy. The 12-year-old, the eldest son of the Messi household, donned the iconic No. 10 jersey of Inter Miami’s youth team—a number forever tied to his father’s legendary career. Despite the team’s 1-0 loss to Newell’s Old Boys, Thiago’s performance quickly became the most talked-about moment of the game.
Thiago’s teammate on the field was his friend Benjamín Suárez, son of Luis Suárez. The friendship between the Messi and Suárez families, which started during their time in Barcelona, is now passed down to the next generation, adding a beautiful layer to the connections football creates.
While Lionel Messi was not present at the match, other family members, including Thiago’s mother Antonela Roccuzzo and his grandparents Jorge Messi and Celia Cuccittini, cheered him on from the stands. Was Lionel’s absence a deliberate choice to relieve his son of added pressure, or simply a way to let Thiago chart his own path away from the spotlight? The question lingers.
The Newell’s Cup has long been known as a stage for discovering talent, hosting young footballers from North and South America. More than just a breeding ground for future stars, the tournament provides a platform for teams representing diverse cultures to compete and connect.
Thiago’s debut, like any match involving the son of a football legend, naturally brings lofty expectations. Will he follow in his father’s footsteps and carve his name into history, or will he forge a new path that reflects his individuality? While the answer remains uncertain, one thing is clear: the love for football is already embedded in the family’s legacy.
As Thiago takes his first steps on the international stage, Inter Miami, the club Lionel Messi currently plays for, is entering a new chapter. Under the leadership of Javier Mascherano, the team aims to build a future where youth development is as vital as the success of its senior squad.
Thiago’s debut in Rosario breathes fresh life into the Messi name while reminding us that football is more than just a game—it’s a bridge between generations, families, and cultures.