Imagine being ten years old and having your father’s handprints tattooed on his calf because you’re basically his world. Now imagine that father is Lionel Messi. For Thiago Messi, that’s just a Tuesday. He's 13 now, and honestly, the pressure must be weird, right? Most kids are worried about math tests, but Thiago has millions of people watching his every move in the Inter Miami academy. People keep asking: Is he the next Leo? Can he actually play?
The truth is way more interesting than just "like father, like son."
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The Thiago Messi Reality: Not Just a Mini-Leo
Let’s get one thing straight. Thiago isn't a carbon copy of his dad. For starters, he’s right-footed. Yeah, you read that right. While Lionel’s left foot is basically a magic wand, Thiago prefers his right. He’s even joked in interviews—yes, he’s doing those now—that he’s "not very good" with his left. It’s kinda refreshing to see a kid with that much humility when his dad has eight Ballon d'Ors sitting on the mantelpiece.
He wasn't always obsessed with the ball.
In fact, Leo once told reporters that Thiago didn't even like football that much when he was really little. He’d go to the games to see his friends, not the match. Can you imagine? Being at the Camp Nou and just wanting to play tag in the stands? But things changed around 2020. He got the "bug." Now, he’s reportedly "crazy" for it, often seen analyzed matches with his dad or training with the Inter Miami U-13s.
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The 11-Goal Game That Set the Internet on Fire
If you follow youth soccer, you probably saw the headlines in early 2025. Thiago Messi scored 11 goals in a single match. Eleven. It was a 12-0 blowout against Atlanta United’s youth side. He was wearing that iconic number 10, and while we shouldn't overhyped a middle-schooler, the footage was something else. He’s got this specific way of moving through the midfield—attacking, vision-heavy, and surprisingly calm.
He’s currently a standout for the Inter Miami academy. He isn't just there because of his last name, though let’s be real, it doesn't hurt. He plays alongside Benjamin Suárez. If that name sounds familiar, it’s because his dad is Luis Suárez. It’s like a Barcelona reunion in South Florida, just ten years younger and a few feet shorter.
Why the "Spain vs. Argentina" Debate is Already Starting
Born in Barcelona in 2012, Thiago is technically a Spanish citizen. He could play for Spain. He could play for Argentina. The Spanish Federation would probably give anything to have a Messi in their ranks again, but Thiago hasn't left much room for doubt. He’s gone on record saying he wants to play for Argentina. "I don't think there is any way the Spanish team can convince me," he said. That’s a bold statement for a teenager, but it shows how deep those Rosario roots run in the family.
Living the Dream (and the Pressure)
Life for Thiago isn't just about drills and jerseys. He’s described by his family as the "well-behaved" one. His younger brother Mateo is the one usually seen causing chaos or teasing his dad after a loss. Thiago is the protector. He’s the one you see holding his brothers' hands during trophy presentations.
But there’s a cost.
He doesn't have anonymity. Every time he goes to a theme park like PortAventura or just grabs a burger in Miami, people are filming. He’s grown up in a fishbowl. Interestingly, his favorite player isn't even his dad—it’s actually Cristiano Ronaldo. Or at least, he’s a huge fan. It shows he’s his own person. He’s not trying to be a clone; he’s a kid who loves the game and happens to have the best mentor in human history.
What’s Next for the Eldest Messi?
Currently, the focus is on his development at the Inter Miami Academy. With the club moving into the new Miami Freedom Park in 2026, the spotlight is only going to get brighter. He has expressed a dream to one day return to Barcelona and play with Lamine Yamal. Considering Yamal is only a few years older, that’s actually a realistic possibility if Thiago keeps his current trajectory.
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Don't expect him to be a pro tomorrow. He's still growing, still learning how to handle the "Messi" name on his back. If you want to follow his journey, keep an eye on the MLS Next Pro highlights. He's showing the kind of composure that suggests the legacy is in good hands, even if he never reaches the "GOAT" status of his father.
Next Steps for Fans:
- Follow Inter Miami Academy: Most of Thiago’s match highlights are posted through official academy channels or "Messi family" fan accounts that track youth games.
- Watch the U-13 MLS Next Tournaments: This is where you’ll see him face real competition from clubs like LAFC or New York City FC.
- Stay Grounded: Remember he’s a kid. The best way to support his journey is to appreciate the skill without demanding he wins a World Cup by 2034.