Lionel Messi’s influence extends far beyond the professional pitch, and that impact is clearly resonating with the next generation. Recent footage circulating online shows Messi’s youngest son, Mateo, exuberantly celebrating a victory with Inter Miami’s Under-8s team, mirroring his father’s iconic goal celebrations. The heartwarming display underscores the powerful legacy the Argentine superstar is building, both on and off the field.
The video, quickly gaining traction on social media, depicts Mateo joining in the jubilant celebrations with his young teammates after a tournament win. He replicates his father’s signature arm-pumping gesture and wide smile, a moment that has delighted fans worldwide. This isn’t the first time Mateo has captured attention with his playful imitations of his father; he’s become known for his spirited antics and unwavering support for the Inter Miami squad.
Messi’s Return to Training Alleviates Concerns Ahead of LAFC Clash
The feel-fine moment comes as Inter Miami prepares for its 2026 Major League Soccer season opener against LAFC on Saturday night. There were initial concerns surrounding Messi’s fitness after he was forced to leave a preseason friendly against Barcelona SC in Ecuador earlier this month with a muscle strain in his left hamstring. Sports Illustrated reported that alarm bells sounded when Messi withdrew in the 12th minute of the second half.
However, those fears have been largely allayed by Messi’s return to full training with the team on Wednesday. The club confirmed the injury, but did not initially provide a recovery timeline, leading to speculation about his availability for the season opener. Athlon Sports highlighted the significance of his return to training just days before the crucial match.
Inter Miami manager Javier Mascherano will likely assess Messi’s condition in the coming days before making a final decision on his participation. While still considered a “minor doubt” as of Wednesday, the fact that Messi participated in full training suggests he is progressing well and could feature against LAFC, even if it’s from the bench. The team’s recent signings, including Germán Berterame, were also present at training, and the pair reportedly displayed promising chemistry during preseason, with Messi assisting Berterame for a goal against Barcelona SC.
The Impact of Messi’s Presence on Inter Miami
Messi’s arrival at Inter Miami in 2023 has undeniably transformed the club, both on and off the field. His presence has attracted global attention, boosted ticket sales, and elevated the overall profile of Major League Soccer. The team’s victory in the 2023 Leagues Cup was a testament to Messi’s immediate impact, and fans are eager to see if they can build on that success in the upcoming season. Inter Miami’s official website provides a profile of the captain, detailing his career achievements and current status with the club.
Beyond the on-field success, Messi’s influence extends to inspiring the next generation of footballers, as evidenced by his son Mateo’s enthusiastic celebrations. This connection with young players and fans is a crucial part of Messi’s legacy, solidifying his status as a global icon. The image of Mateo emulating his father’s celebrations is a powerful symbol of the passion and excitement that Messi brings to the game.
Muscle Strain Details and Recovery
The muscle strain Messi sustained in his left hamstring during the match against Barcelona SC on February 8, 2026, initially raised concerns about a potentially significant injury. According to Inter Miami CF’s official injury update, Messi did not participate in training on February 11th due to the strain. However, his swift return to full training on February 18th suggests the injury was less severe than initially feared.
The club’s medical staff will continue to monitor Messi’s condition closely to ensure he doesn’t experience any setbacks. Mascherano is likely to adopt a cautious approach, potentially limiting Messi’s playing time in the early stages of the season to prevent re-injury. The priority will be to ensure Messi remains fit and available for the majority of the campaign, including potential participation in the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Looking Ahead: Inter Miami’s 2026 Season
Inter Miami’s 2026 season opener against LAFC promises to be a highly anticipated event, with fans eager to witness Messi’s return to action. The match will be held at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum, providing a grand stage for the league’s biggest star. The team will be looking to build on their success from last season and establish themselves as a dominant force in MLS.
The addition of new players like Germán Berterame will further strengthen Inter Miami’s squad, providing Mascherano with more tactical options. The team’s ability to integrate these new signings effectively will be crucial to their success. The competition in MLS is fierce, and Inter Miami will face a challenging schedule throughout the season.
However, with Messi leading the charge, Inter Miami will undoubtedly be a team to watch. His presence not only elevates the team’s performance but also inspires fans and attracts global attention. The heartwarming scenes of his son Mateo celebrating a victory with the U8s team serve as a reminder of the lasting impact Messi is having on the beautiful game.
The next update on Messi’s fitness will likely approach following Inter Miami’s training session on Friday, February 20th, ahead of their departure for Los Angeles. Fans can stay informed through the club’s official website and social media channels. We encourage readers to share their thoughts on Messi’s return and Inter Miami’s prospects for the season in the comments below.
